troll

Trolls are beings from folklore and modern culture. In Nordic and Scandinavian folklore, a troll is a supernatural creature, often large, ugly, and hostile to people. Trolls are said to dwell in mountains, caves, or bridges and to mislead or prey on travelers. The portrayal varies by region, ranging from dangerous giants to mischievous spirits. The word’s origins are tied to older languages and to the broader tradition of legendary beings that interact with humans in perilous ways.

In contemporary usage, the term "troll" also describes someone who posts provocative or deceptive content online to provoke a reaction or disrupt discussion. Internet trolling draws on the metaphor of baiting or luring a response. The practice can be playful or malicious; motivations include amusement, attention, political manipulation, or revenge. Trolling can take many forms, from deliberate misstatements and derailment to impersonation and targeted harassment and harassment campaigns.

Responses to trolling vary by platform and community. Online services implement policies to deter trolling, including reporting, blocking, muting, and moderator intervention. Some communities emphasize redirection and civility, while others adopt strict no-tolerance rules. There is ongoing debate about free speech versus protection from harassment, and some trolls coordinate in groups to amplify impact, sometimes referred to as troll farms. In severe cases, online harassment can have real-world consequences.

The concept of trolling intersects folklore and digital culture, contributing to discussions about civility, manipulation, and the responsibilities of online participation.