WordGarden.iogoblin
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡˈɒblɪn/
US
- /ˈɡɑblɪn/
Meanings
Noun
a small mischievous or ugly creature in folklore or fantasy
an insulting term for a person regarded as unpleasant, grotesque, or mischievous
Beyond the definition
Goblins are often shown as small, ugly creatures from folklore, with pointy ears, rough features, and a habit of causing trouble. They are not always completely evil. In many stories, they are more like mean pranksters, sneaky thieves, or greedy treasure-keepers. Sometimes they are scary, but they can also seem silly, clever, or a little pathetic. You might picture them hiding in caves, dark forests, or ruined places, waiting to steal, trick, or guard something valuable. The word usually suggests something unpleasant and troublesome rather than something truly powerful.
The word "goblin" conjures images of fantastical creatures steeped in European folklore, though similar beings appear in mythologies around the world. Originally, goblins weren't always small or ugly; early descriptions varied widely. Over time, however, they became associated with a specific archetype: short, grotesque humanoids known for their mischief, greed, and occasional malice.
Goblins are often portrayed as living underground—in caves, mines, or abandoned buildings—and emerging at night to play tricks on humans or steal valuables. They are frequently depicted as skilled craftspeople but with a twisted aesthetic; they might forge beautiful objects from stolen materials, but always with a flaw or a curse attached.
The meaning of "goblin" has expanded beyond old folklore. Today, it can be used metaphorically for someone who seems greedy, unpleasant, or sneaky (for example, "a little goblin hoarding all the snacks"), or as a playful way to blame annoying problems on an unseen force (for example, "the printer must be full of goblins"). It is also common in fantasy books, films, and games, where goblins may appear as weak but dangerous monsters, comic troublemakers, or clever underground traders and fighters.
From the dark forests of ancient tales to modern-day metaphors, "goblin" represents a creature both frightening and fascinating—a reminder that not everything hidden in the shadows is purely evil, but often just... annoying.
Examples
- 1
Old stories
In the old story, a goblin steals coins from people who pass through the forest.
- 2
Fantasy adventure
The cave was full of goblins, so the heroes moved quietly.
- 3
Playful appearance
You look like a goblin before your first cup of coffee.
- Usagea goblin
someone who looks messy or not fully awake, said playfully
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- goblinnoun
Forms
- goblinspluralnoun