Troll: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who deliberately posts offensive, controversial, or off-topic messages in an online community to upset people or provoke an emotional response. Often used in online forums and social media.

• Don't feed the troll; just ignore his comments.
• She was banned from the forum for being a troll.

Used to describe someone who provokes others to create a reaction, conflict, or controversy. The term can apply to various situations, not limited to online activities, and may refer to artistic or political contexts as well.

• His role as a provocateur helped the artist push social boundaries through his work.
• The political provocateur managed to incite a heated debate at the conference.

Refers to a person who posts insulting or inflammatory comments online, often in a cyber-bullying manner. The tone is usually very aggressive and intended to provoke anger or upset. Negative connotation.

• The discussion quickly deteriorated as a flamer entered the chat.
• Flamers often make it hard for others to have a constructive conversation.

A general term for a person who causes problems, mischief, or disturbances. It is versatile and can be used in both online and offline contexts. Often implies a nuisance but not always malicious intent.

• The new kid in class is a real troublemaker; he's always disrupting lessons.
• In any group, there's usually one troublemaker who stirs things up.

A troll is often associated with internet behavior, referring to someone who intentionally provokes or upsets others online. It can also describe a mythical creature that lives under bridges or in caves, often depicted as ugly and malevolent.

• Don't feed the troll; he's just looking for attention.
• The hero had to outsmart the troll to cross the bridge.

An ogre refers to a large and fearsome creature, often depicted in folklore and fairy tales. It can also describe a person who is perceived as extremely unpleasant or cruel.

• The ogre guarded the bridge, demanding a toll from anyone who wanted to cross.
• People often referred to the strict teacher as an ogre, though he was actually very caring.

A giant is often used to describe a huge, usually mythical, human-like creature or anything larger-than-life. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a person or entity known for their great achievements or influence.

• The giant towered over the village, casting a long shadow.
• He is considered a giant in the field of science.

A goblin is typically depicted as a mischievous and malevolent creature in folklore and fantasy literature. It can refer to a small, ugly, and evil being that causes trouble.

• The goblin sneaked into the house to steal shiny objects.
• Goblins are known for their trickery and deceit.

Again, related to the act of posting inflammatory content online to upset others. Duplicate entry probably included for emphasis.

• After realizing he was a troll, many people started ignoring his comments
• The troll's comment section was filled with hateful speech

Used when someone is deliberately trying to evoke a reaction, usually an emotional or angry one, from another person.

• His rude remarks were intended to provoke his opponent
• Don't let them provoke you into saying something you'll regret

Best used when referring to actions that cause someone to become hostile or angry. Often used in general interactions, not limited to online.

• He tends to antagonize his coworkers by constantly criticizing their work
• If you continue to antagonize the dog, it might bite you

Typically used when someone is tempting or luring another person into a confrontation or a trap, often with the purpose of eliciting an aggressive response.

• They tried to bait him into reacting angrily by spreading false rumors
• She wouldn't fall for his attempts to bait her into an argument