Gnome

Part of speech: noun (n.)

1. An imaginary being, supposed by the Rosicrucians to inhabit the inner parts of the earth, and to be the guardian of mines, quarries, etc.

2. A dwarf; a goblin; a person of small stature or misshapen features, or of strange appearance.

3. A small owl (Glaucidium gnoma) of the Western United States.

4. A brief reflection or maxim. Peacham.