What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
orc
Example
The orc army marched towards the castle, ready for battle. [orc: noun]
Example
He played as an orc in the Dungeons and Dragons game. [orc: noun]
goblin
Example
The goblin stole the treasure from under the dragon's nose. [goblin: noun]
Example
She encountered a group of goblins while exploring the forest. [goblins: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Orc is more commonly used than goblin in fantasy literature and games, particularly in works that draw inspiration from Norse mythology. However, goblin has also gained popularity in modern media, such as the Harry Potter series and World of Warcraft.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between orc and goblin?
Both orc and goblin are informal words that are primarily used in fantasy contexts. However, orc may be considered slightly more formal due to its use in classic literature and mythology.
