Gnome (?), n. [F. gnome, prob. fr. Gr. γνώμον one that knows, a guardian, i.e., of the treasures in the inner parts of the earth, or fr. � intelligence, both fr. γνω̑ναι, γιγνω̑σκειν, to know. See Know.] 1. An imaginary being, supposed by the Rosicrucians to inhabit the inner parts of the earth, and to be the guardian of mines, quarries, etc.
2. A dwarf; a goblin; a person of small stature or misshapen features, or of strange appearance.
3. (Zoöl.) A small owl (Glaucidium gnoma) of the Western United States.
4. A brief reflection or maxim. Peacham.