Norse Mythology:
* The earliest known use of "troll" comes from Old Norse "tröll," a term for a mythical creature found in Scandinavian folklore. These trolls were typically depicted as large, ugly, and often malicious beings inhabiting caves, mountains, and other remote places.
* They were associated with various characteristics:
* Physical strength: They were known for their immense size and brute force.
* Magical abilities: Some possessed magic, able to cast spells or shape-shift.
* Guarding treasures: Often, trolls guarded hidden gold or other valuable objects.
* Bridge-dwelling: They were sometimes associated with bridges, where they might demand tolls or cause harm to travelers.
English Language:
* The word "troll" entered the English language through Old Norse influence, initially meaning "a supernatural being of Scandinavian folklore."
* Over time, the word's meaning broadened and evolved:
* 17th and 18th centuries: "Troll" started being used to refer to mischievous or malicious people, particularly children or those causing mischief.
* 19th century: The term acquired connotations of "a large, ugly, and stupid person."
* 20th century: With the rise of internet culture, "troll" took on a new meaning: "a person who intentionally posts inflammatory or off-topic messages in an online community, to provoke an emotional response or disrupt a discussion."
Modern Use:
Today, "troll" is used in several ways:
* Mythological creature: It still retains its original meaning in literature and fantasy contexts.
* Mischievous person: It can refer to someone who enjoys teasing or causing trouble.
* Online disrupter: This is the most common usage, referring to individuals who intentionally disrupt online conversations or communities.
In summary, the word "troll" has undergone a fascinating evolution, from a mythical creature to a term for mischievous individuals and now a modern online phenomenon.