Troll (disambiguation)

Common meanings

• Troll (folklore) — a mythological being often associated with Scandinavian stories; see also creature.
• Troll — a feature film titled "Troll".
• Troll 2 — a separate film, popularly noted for its cult reputation.
• Troll 3 — a name used in distribution for more than one unrelated film; see also alternate Troll 3.
• Internet trolling — the act of provoking or disrupting conversations online.

Folklore and fiction: In traditional Scandinavian and Northern European tales, trolls are supernatural beings that inhabit remote places such as mountains, caves, or forests. They vary widely in size and temperament in different stories, sometimes portrayed as giant and hostile, other times smaller and trickier. Popular fiction and role-playing games have adapted these traits, often adding distinctive features such as rapid regeneration or vulnerability to sunlight.

Films: Several movies use "Troll" in the title but are not necessarily related to one another. One 1980s fantasy film bears the name "Troll," while a later, separate production called "Troll 2" gained notoriety and a dedicated cult following for its perceived low production values and odd narrative choices. The label "Troll 3" has been attached by distributors to different films in different markets, creating confusion about continuity.

Internet and modern usage: An "internet troll" is someone who intentionally posts inflammatory, off-topic, or disruptive messages in online communities to provoke emotional responses or derail discussion. Motivations include amusement, attention-seeking, political persuasion, or harassment. Communities and platforms respond with moderation tools, community norms, and technical measures to reduce harm and preserve constructive discussion.

Other uses and notable facts: The term also appears in toys (the collectible "troll doll" phenomenon), in literature and gaming as a monster archetype, and in metaphorical speech (e.g., calling someone a "troll" in conversation). Because the meanings are so different, readers should consult context-specific articles for detailed information.

For dedicated articles on each sense, follow the links above or search titles directly: folklore, film, Troll 2, Troll 3, and internet trolling.