Boff replied on 30/08/2018 08:32
Posted on 30/08/2018 08:32
One of my interests is Etymology. That is the study of the derivation and history of words. I have recently come across a strange phrase “Internet Troll”. My research has revealed that the word troll has two definitions associated with it.
The first is a mythical creature from Norse mythology that dwells in rocks and isolated places and is malevolent to human beings
The other definition. To troll, is act of towing a bright flashy lure behind a boat in order to capture its prey.
I really can’t decide which of these definitions is the source of Troll in the Internet context. I just wonder if anyone or group of individuals who contribute on here and I am sure have much greater knowledge than me could enlighten me with regards to the derivation of this phrase?
Thanks in advance.
Boff
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