Langimage
English

gnome

|gnome|

B2

🇺🇸

/noʊm/

🇬🇧

/nəʊm/

mythical creature

Etymology
Etymology Information

'gnome' originates from the New Latin word 'gnomus', which was coined by the 16th-century alchemist Paracelsus.

Historical Evolution

'gnomus' was adopted into English as 'gnome' in the 18th century, maintaining its mythical connotations.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to a mythical creature, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a mythical creature resembling a tiny old man, often depicted as living underground and guarding treasure.

The garden was decorated with colorful gnomes.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a figurine or statue of a gnome, often used as a garden ornament.

She placed a gnome by the flower bed.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42