A leprechaun is a small, mischievous fairy from Irish folklore, often depicted as a bearded man wearing a green coat and hat. Traditionally, leprechauns are known for their love of gold and are said to hide their treasure at the end of a rainbow. They are often portrayed as cobblers, making shoes for other fairies. In stories, leprechauns are clever and tricky, often using their wits to outsmart humans. They are part of a larger tradition of fairies in Irish mythology, which includes various magical beings with different characteristics and roles in folklore.