WordGarden.iohobbit
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /hˈɒbɪt/
US
- /ˈhɑbɪt/
Meanings
Noun
a small fictional humanlike being from Tolkien-style fantasy stories
an informal nickname for Homo floresiensis, a small extinct human relative
Beyond the definition
Hobbits, created by J.R.R. Tolkien in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, are small, human-like people known for their love of comfort, good food, and simple pleasures. They usually avoid adventure, but they can show surprising courage when they have to. Think of cozy homes built into hillsides, hairy feet, and a love of extra meals like "second breakfast."
They are not elves or dwarves but their own kind of people. In Tolkien's stories, they are easy to overlook, yet they often play an important part in great events. Bilbo Baggins, one of the best-known hobbits, starts out wanting to stay safe at home but ends up becoming an unlikely hero.
The word "hobbit" refers to a fictional race of small, humanoid creatures created by J.R.R. Tolkien for his fantasy world of Middle-earth. They are roughly half the height of humans, averaging around three feet six inches tall, and possess several unique characteristics: notably large, leathery, hairy feet (making shoes unnecessary) and a generally cheerful disposition.
Hobbits live peaceful, agrarian lives in comfortable homes built into hillsides—known as "hobbit-holes"—within the idyllic region of The Shire. They are renowned for their love of food (often eating six or seven meals a day!), gardening, pipe-weed smoking, and storytelling. While generally averse to adventure and preferring the comforts of home, hobbits possess a hidden resilience and surprising physical and mental toughness when faced with danger.
The term "hobbit" itself is linked in Tolkien's lore to the Old English-style word holbytla, meaning "hole-builder." Unlike the mischievous goblins or spirits found in broader folklore, Tolkien portrayed his hobbits as wholesome, good-natured, and remarkably ordinary folk who find themselves in extraordinary circumstances.
Hobbits are the central protagonists in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, often serving as unlikely heroes who demonstrate that bravery and kindness can be found in the most unassuming creatures. They represent a longing for a simpler life and a deep connection to nature. So, when you hear "hobbit," think of cozy homes, full bellies, hairy feet, and a quiet life… until adventure calls!
Examples
- 1
Fantasy story
In the story, a young hobbit leaves his quiet village and goes on a dangerous journey.
- 2
Fictional village
The film shows a village where hobbits live in round houses under the hills.
- 3
Playful comparison
He loves gardening, good food, and staying home, so his friends joke that he is basically a hobbit.
- Phrasebasically a hobbit
very much like the quiet, home-loving image of a hobbit
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- hobbitnoun