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: an ugly or grotesque sprite that is usually mischievous and sometimes evil and malicious
Synonyms
Examples of goblin in a Sentence
dressed up the toddlers like goblins for Halloween
Recent Examples on the Web
Afraid of evil spirits, the Celts would light up bonfires by the hilltops, and wear masks to hide their identity from the ghosts; this is how this holiday began to be associated with figures such as witches and goblins.
—Marco Rubio, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024
The treats are on for hungry goblins as restaurants around central Indiana are offering Halloween specials today.
—Cheryl V. Jackson, The Indianapolis Star, 1 Nov. 2024
Meanwhile, Denver County's little goblins comprise about 10% of its population.
—Alayna Alvarez, Axios, 27 Oct. 2024
Monster Vault allows the designers to take a crack at some classic creatures like kobolds, goblins, demons and dragons.
—Rob Wieland, Forbes, 18 Sep. 2024
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Word History
Etymology
Middle English gobelin, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin gobelinus, ultimately from Greek kobalos rogue
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of goblin was
in the 14th century
Articles Related to goblin
Dictionary Entries Near goblin
Cite this Entry
“Goblin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goblin. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
goblin
noun
gob·lin
ˈgäb-lən
: an ugly, evil, or mischievous elf
More from Merriam-Webster on goblin
Nglish: Translation of goblin for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of goblin for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about goblin
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