# goblin

/ˈɡɑbɫɪn/ (US) · /ɡˈɒblɪn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/goblin
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a small, ugly creature from old stories that is often mean or likes to play tricks. In modern slang, it describes someone who stays inside, acts messy, or ignores social rules for fun.

For teachers: a mischievous, grotesque creature from European folklore, typically depicted as small and malevolent. In contemporary informal usage, it refers to a person who rejects societal expectations of grooming or productivity, often in a playful or self-deprecating way.

## Examples

- The old story tells of a goblin living under the bridge.
- After a week of exams, she went full goblin mode, staying in her pajamas and eating cereal for every meal.
- While traditional literature portrays the goblin as a purely antagonistic figure, modern internet subcultures have reclaimed the term to celebrate a chaotic, unpolished lifestyle that rejects performative perfection.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the compound phrase 'goblin mode' to describe a specific state of behavior.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.