gremlin

English

/ˈɡɹɛm.lɪn/

noun
Definitions
  • A mythical creature reputed to be mischievously inclined to damage or dismantle machinery.
  • (by extension) Any mysterious, unknown source of trouble or mischief.
  • (surfing) A young inexperienced surfer.

Etymology

Derived from Middle English gremly (terrible) derived from Old English gremman.

Origin

Old English

gremman

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms