2 entries under this word
n. [Cf. Ger. hub, a heaving, lifting, Dan. hob, Sw. hop, heap, W. hob, any thing which can rise or swell out.]
n. [Originally an abbreviation of Robin, Robert; Robin Goodfellow, a celebrated fairy, or domestic spirit. Cf. HODGE from Roger, and see HOBGOBLIN.] [Obs.]
Sense 1. A clown; a fairy.
From elves, hobs, and fairies, . . . Defend us, good Heaven! Beau. & Fl.
Sense 2. A countryman; a rustic.
Many of the country hobs, who had gotten an estate liable to a fine, took it first as a jest; . . . but their purses afterward paid for it in good earnest. Select Lives of English Worthies.