foliot

English

Etymology

(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.)

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈfəʊliət/

Noun

foliot (plural foliots)

1. Part of the verge escapement in early clocks.
2. A creature from Italian folklore that makes noises and flings objects about.
   • 1624, Democritus Junior [pseudonym; Robert Burton], The Anatomy of Melancholy: […], 2nd edition, Oxford, Oxfordshire: Printed by John Lichfield and James Short, for Henry Cripps, →OCLC:

     Terrestrial devils are those lares, genii, faunes, satyrs, wood-nymphs, foliots, fairies […]