Meaning of hobgoblin in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈhɑbˌɡɑblən/

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   UK accent

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1. Noun

   hobgoblin

   Etymology

   mid 16th century: from hob+ goblin

   Definitions

   1. (folklore) a small grotesque supernatural creature that makes trouble for human beings
2. 2. an object of dread or apprehension

   Examples

   • « Germany was always a bugbear for France »
   • « A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds--Ralph Waldo Emerson »