A Gremlin is a mythical creature often depicted as mischievous and troublesome. Originating from British folklore, these small, impish beings are said to cause mechanical failures and other mischief, particularly in aircraft and machinery. The term gained popularity during World War II, when pilots attributed unexplained malfunctions to these creatures. In popular culture, Gremlins have been featured in various films, books, and video games. The most notable representation is in the 1984 movie Gremlins, directed by Joe Dante, where they are portrayed as cute but dangerous creatures that wreak havoc when not cared for properly.