Gnōme, n.

(nōm), n. [Fr. gnome, Sp. & It. gnomo, from Gr. γνώμων, one that knows, a guardian, i. e., of the treasures in the inner parts of the earth, from γιγνώσκω, to know.]

1Sense 1. An imaginary being, supposed by the Rosicrucians to inhabit the inner parts of the earth, and to be the guardian of mines, quarries, &c.

2Sense 2. A dwarf; a goblin; a person of small stature or misshapen features, or of strange appearance.

3Sense 3. [Gr. γνώμη, from γιγνώσκω, to know.] A brief reflection or maxim. [Obs.] Peacham.

☞ In the latter sense, pronounced by Smart and Worcester no'me.