Gnome
Gnome , noun
[French gnome, prob. from Greek gnw`mon one that knows, a guardian, i. e., of the treasures in the inner parts of the earth, or from {not transcribed} intelligence, both from gnw^nai, gignw^skein, to know. See Know.]
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.
(Zoology) A small owl (Glaucidium gnoma) of the Western United States.
4.
A brief reflection or maxim. — Peacham