First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
goblin
noun gob·lin \ˈgäb-lən\
in stories : an ugly and sometimes evil creature that likes to cause trouble
Full Definition of GOBLIN
: an ugly or grotesque sprite that is usually mischievous and sometimes evil and malicious
See goblin defined for English-language learners
See goblin defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of GOBLIN
Middle English gobelin, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin gobelinus, ultimately from Greek kobalos rogue
GOBLIN Defined for Kids
goblin
noun gob·lin \ˈgä-blən\
Definition of GOBLIN for Kids
: an ugly and often evil imaginary creature
Learn More About GOBLIN
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: goblinePrevious Word in the Dictionary: goblet cellAll Words Near: goblin
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up goblin? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).