Troll Meaning and Definition
Troll
Pronunciation
/trɔl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A troll is a person who intentionally posts inflammatory, provocative, or off-putting comments or messages online, often to elicit a reaction or stir up controversy.
Examples
1. “The troll’s comment was deleted for being too hurtful.”
2. “Some online communities have implemented strict moderation policies to combat trolling.”
Synonyms
1. Cyberbully
2. Online harasser
Antonyms
1. Respectful commenter
2. Engaged participant
Additional Information
Trolls often use their online presence to spread misinformation, hatred, or intolerance, and their actions can have serious consequences on individuals and communities. Research has shown that exposure to trolling can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and decreased trust in online interactions. Identifying and addressing troll behavior is crucial in maintaining a safe and healthy online environment.
Trolls can be found in various online formats, including comment sections, social media, and online forums. They may use different strategies to achieve their goals, such as creating fake personas or using inflammatory language. Recognizing the signs of trolling, reporting incidents, and engaging in constructive dialogue can help mitigate the negative effects of trolling and promote a more positive and respectful online culture.
Statistical analysis has revealed that trolling is a widespread phenomenon, with a significant percentage of online users experiencing or witnessing trolling in some form. Online platforms have implemented various measures to address trolling, including artificial intelligence-powered moderation tools and community-led reporting systems. Educating users about online etiquette and promoting responsible behavior can help reduce the prevalence of trolling and create a more inclusive and respectful online environment.
Etymology
The word “troll” originates from the Old Norse language, where it referred to a creature that lived in caves or under bridges. In the 18th century, the term was adopted in Germanic cultures to describe mythical beings said to haunt bridges and exact revenge on travelers. The modern usage of the term, however, emerged in the early 21st century with the rise of online communities, where it referred to individuals who intentionally disrupt and annoy others online.
Usage Notes
Troll is often used as a verb to describe the act of posting inflammatory comments or messages. It can also be used as a noun to refer to the person who engages in this behavior. When using the term, it is essential to avoid blaming or shaming the behavior, and instead focus on addressing the consequences and finding solutions to mitigate its effects.
In some contexts, troll can be used more loosely to describe someone who is being annoying or provoking. However, in general, the term refers to a specific type of online behavior that is intentionally hurtful or disruptive.
Cultural References
The concept of trolling has been explored in various media formats, including movies, TV shows, and literature. Some notable examples include:
1. “The Troll,” a 1986 fantasy film featuring a troll as the main antagonist.
2. “Troll,” a 2022 comedy film starring Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead.
3. The novel “The Troll: A Monster Tale of Adventure and Magic” by Michael Arnold.
4. The anime series “Trollhunters,” which features a troll as a main character.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word troll are:
1. “Troll around.”
2. “Troll the web.”
3. “Don’t feed the troll.”
Collocations
Some common word combinations with the term troll include:
1. Troll comment
2. Troll behavior
3. Troll online
4. Troll attack
Frequency of Use
According to the Google Ngram Viewer, the term “troll” has experienced a significant increase in usage since the early 2000s, particularly in the context of online communities. This reflects the growing awareness and concern about online harassment and the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful online environment.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings and variations of the word troll include:
1. Troll
2. Trolle
3. Trollen