robin goodfellow: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowLiterary, Historical, Folklore
Quick answer
What does “robin goodfellow” mean?
A mischievous sprite or hobgoblin from English folklore, famously known as Puck in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A mischievous sprite or hobgoblin from English folklore, famously known as Puck in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'.
A trickster figure in British mythology, known for playing pranks on humans but also capable of helping with household chores. Often used as a poetic or literary term for a playful, elusive nature spirit.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The character is deeply rooted in English/British folklore and is far more culturally salient in the UK. American usage is almost exclusively through literary reference, particularly to Shakespeare.
Connotations
UK: Strong associations with native folklore, rural superstition, and Shakespeare. US: Primarily a literary or academic reference, lacking the folkloric depth.
Frequency
Very rarely used in general conversation in either variety. Higher recognition and slightly more frequent literary use in the UK.
Grammar
How to Use “robin goodfellow” in a Sentence
[Robin Goodfellow] + verb (played, tricked, appeared)the + antics/legend of + [Robin Goodfellow]a figure like + [Robin Goodfellow]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “robin goodfellow” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He's been Robin-Goodfellowing about the garden, hiding the gardening tools. (non-standard, playful formation)
American English
- She Robin-Goodfellowed her brother by rearranging all his furniture. (non-standard, playful formation)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in literary criticism, Shakespeare studies, and folklore research.
Everyday
Virtually never used. Might appear in casual reference to someone's mischievous behaviour: 'What have you done, you little Robin Goodfellow?'
Technical
Specific to folklore, mythology, and literary studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “robin goodfellow”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “robin goodfellow”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “robin goodfellow”
- Using it as a common noun ('a robin goodfellow').
- Spelling as 'Robin Goodfellow' without capitals.
- Confusing him with Robin Hood (the outlaw).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, he is a mythological and literary figure from English folklore, most famously immortalised by William Shakespeare.
They are the same entity. 'Puck' is a generic Old English term for a mischievous sprite, while 'Robin Goodfellow' is a specific, personal name for that sprite in folklore, which Shakespeare used interchangeably.
He is neither purely good nor evil. He is a classic trickster figure, whose pranks can be annoying or frightening but are rarely depicted as truly malicious. In some tales, he rewards kindness with help.
It is used almost exclusively in literary or descriptive contexts, e.g., 'The child had a Robin Goodfellow glint in his eye, as if planning a prank.'
A mischievous sprite or hobgoblin from English folklore, famously known as Puck in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'.
Robin goodfellow is usually literary, historical, folklore in register.
Robin goodfellow: in British English it is pronounced /ˌrɒb.ɪn ˈɡʊd.fel.əʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌrɑː.bɪn ˈɡʊd.fel.oʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As merry as Robin Goodfellow (archaic)”
- “To play Robin Goodfellow (to be mischievous or play tricks, archaic)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'robin' (the bird) that is 'good' at 'fellow'-ship, but is actually a tricky fairy. The bird is red and cheerful, the character is playful and red-cheeked.
Conceptual Metaphor
MISCHIEF IS A PLAYFUL SUPERNATURAL BEING; ELUSIVENESS IS A FAIRY.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary cultural domain of Robin Goodfellow?