púki

Púki is a creature from Icelandic folklore described as a goblin- or imp-like spirit. Tales vary by region, but púkar are generally conceived as small, humanoid beings that dwell in natural places such as forests, rocks, or farmyards and interact with humans in ways that range from cautious to malevolent. Common motifs include mischief, theft of food or tools, rearranging objects, and making noises at night to frighten people. In some traditions they are shy or easily offended and may be warded off by offering harmless gifts, keeping a tidy homestead, or showing respect to the spirits of the place. In others they may be tricksters who demand compliance or retaliation for insults.

Etymology and classification: The word púki is part of a wider Germanic and Gaelic-derived folklore of goblin- or elf-like beings. It is related to the Gaelic word púca (pooka) and to English puck, reflecting shared mythic roots of mischievous spirits across the British Isles and Scandinavia.

In modern use, púki appears in Icelandic literature, music, and role-playing games as a generic goblin-like creature. The term is sometimes translated as goblin, imp, or pixie depending on context, but it remains distinct from other Icelandic beings such as huldufólk (hidden people) or álfar (elves).

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