gnome

(magic, alchemy, Rosicrucianism) An elemental (spirit or corporeal creature associated with a classical element) associated with earth.

(mythology, fantasy) One of a race of imaginary human-like beings, usually depicted as short and typically bearded males, who inhabit the inner parts of the earth and act as guardians of mines, mineral treasure, etc.; in modern fantasy literature and games, when distinguished from dwarves, gnomes are usually even smaller than dwarves and more focussed on engineering than mining.

A person of small stature or misshapen features, or of strange appearance.

The northern pygmy owl, Glaucidium gnoma, a small owl of the western United States.

A small statue of a dwarf-like character, often bearded, placed in a garden.

(astronomy, meteorology) An upper atmospheric optical phenomenon associated with thunderstorms, a compact blue starter.

(often derogatory) A banker, especially a secretive international one.