gremlins

plural of gremlin
as in fairies
an imaginary being usually having a small human form and magical powers during the World Wars, fighter pilots adopted the fanciful notion that gremlins were responsible for mechanical failures on their planes

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of gremlins Other old-car issues, such as gremlins impacting the electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and exhaust systems, are ongoing considerations. Robert Ross, Robb Report, 3 Oct. 2025 The colorful gremlins were often paired with bag charms, Trendalytics said saw 247 percent growth year-over-year. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 15 Aug. 2025 The popularity of the petite gremlins has spawned fakes. Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 11 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gremlins
Noun
  • Later, in adulthood, Alice makes miniatures for a living, inspired by artist Joseph Cornell’s boxes and the tiny fairies her mother owned, nestled in the head of a pin.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Where are True Blood's vampires, shapeshifters, werewolves, and fairies today?
    Matt Cabral, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The hanging fireplace, seemingly lit by house elves, pairs nicely with the gratis bottles of spirits and Chilean wine.
    Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 16 Oct. 2025
  • And all these dwarves and elves and humans go, ‘What?
    Elisabeth Garber-Paul, Rolling Stone, 2 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Ghosts and goblins, along with Pikachu and princesses, filled the grounds of Heritage Hill Historical Park over the weekend.
    Heather McRea, Oc Register, 14 Oct. 2025
  • Jack-o-lanterns, ghouls and goblins are around every corner, but the scariest creatures of all might be thousands of feet below the ocean’s surface.
    Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 13 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Gremlins.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gremlins. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.

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