Synonyms for

Goblin

Verb / ˈgɑ:blɪn / Another word for goblin — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a small, mischievous and ugly creature in fairy tales and folklore, often depicted as a malicious entity that causes harm to humans

Synonyms & similar words

hob hobgoblin imp elf gnome hobgoblin brownie sprite faerie leprechaun pixie gremlin bogeyman monster devil demon ogre troll witch warlock vampire zombie

Synonyms by register

Formal

ogre troll fiend demon

Informal

imp gremlin bogeyman bugbear

Literary

hobgoblin brownie gnome

Antonyms

angel fairy sprite elf pixie nymph

Common collocations

  • mischievous goblin
  • evil goblin
  • forest goblin
  • goblin king
  • goblin horde
  • goblin market
  • goblin cave

Word family

noun goblin
adjective goblinly

Usage note

Goblin typically refers to a mythical creature, often depicted as small, grotesque, and mischievous. It is not generally used to describe a real person, though it can be used metaphorically for someone considered unpleasant or wicked.

Example sentences

  1. The goblin in the forest scared the little girl.
  2. The goblin stole my cookies.
  3. The goblin's laugh was creepy.
  4. The goblin under the bed was just a toy.
  5. The goblin king was defeated by the brave knight.

Quotes

  • The Goblin grinned a grotesque, evil grin. - J.K. Rowling
  • Hobgoblins know the proper way to dance: Arms akimbo, loopy legs askew, and frantically dosey-doe to death. - Vera Nazarian
  • Goblins are cruel, malicious, and cunning creatures, but they're also small and cowardly. - J.K. Rowling

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