hobgoblin

[ hob-gob-lin ]

noun

1. something causing superstitious fear; a bogy.
2. a mischievous goblin.
3. Hobgoblin. Puck ( def 1 ).

hobgoblin

/ ˌhɒbˈɡɒblɪn /

noun

1. an evil or mischievous goblin
2. a bogey; bugbear

Word History and Origins

Origin of hobgoblin¹

First recorded in 1520–30; hob ² + goblin

Word History and Origins

Origin of hobgoblin¹

C16: from hob ² + goblin

Example Sentences

But many people also "consider" the Earth to be flat or believe Ernst is a hobgoblin in a lady suit.

From Salon

There’s a catch: Every day, a blood offering, like a slice of liver, must be left for the Redcaps, the hungry, hooded hobgoblins who call the property home.

From New York Times

It is in part because of these abilities that she became a hobgoblin of the right - a villain whose name or imagine headlined countless fundraising pitches and political adverts.

From BBC

I’m fine with that; a foolish adherence to canon is the hobgoblin of small minds.

From The Verge

Like in The World at the End of the Tunnel when Jack is taken to the hobgoblin king’s castle and thrown in the highest tower.

From Literature