Hobgoblin (noun)

A mischievous or troublesome creature or spirit, especially one believed to torment householders by playing tricks on them or making noise at night.

Origin:

Derived from the middle english word 'hobbe' meaning a sprite or goblin.

Examples:

1. The old house was said to be haunted by a hobgoblin who would turn objects upside down and make strange noises in the night.
2. The villagers were afraid of the hobgoblin that lived in the woods, and would often make offerings of food to appease it.
3. The hobgoblin was known to steal food and other objects from travelers, who would often bribe it with sweets or small trinkets.
4. The hobgoblin was often depicted as a small, mischievous imp with a pointed hat and mischievous grin.
5. The children would often tell stories around the campfire about the hobgoblin that lived in the nearby caves.