Gnom — meaning in English

English meaning

• gnome noun A small, legendary earth-dwelling being, often shown as an old bearded man, said to guard underground treasure or mines.
• midget noun A very small thing; especially one which is conspicuously smaller than expected or by comparison.

Senses

Gnom is used for these senses in English:

• gnome (mythology, fantasy) One of a race of imaginary human-like beings, usually depicted as short and typically bearded males, who inhabit the inner parts of the earth and act as guardians of mines, mineral treasure, etc.; in modern fantasy literature and games, when distinguished from dwarves, gnomes are usually smaller than dwarves and more focused on engineering than mining.
• little person (folklore, fantasy) A small magical humanoid creature, such as an elf, leprechaun, or fairy.
• midget (derogatory, offensive) A short person. [from later 19th c.]

gnome — full definition

1. noun A small, legendary earth-dwelling being, often shown as an old bearded man, said to guard underground treasure or mines.
2. noun A small ornamental statue of such a figure, often placed in a garden.
3. noun Informal: a secretive, powerful figure in international banking or finance.

midget — full definition

1. noun A very small thing; especially one which is conspicuously smaller than expected or by comparison.
2. noun A short person.
3. noun Something for use by a small person; especially something designed or made for one.

Related German words