Query from a newbie Fodorite
 

I've taken a great deal of amusement in reading through the various threads in this site in my spare time but it seems to baffle me when I read that there's a person described as a "troll" posting messages regarding a certain topic. To the seasoned contributors, please enlighten me on this colourful metaphor!

Troll (noun): 1. A gnarly little creature whose primary purpose in their gnarly little life is to get a rise out of strangers on Internet forum. 2. One who "trolls" for reaction, usually by posting preposterous questions and/or opinions, sometimes obviously (often done with the audience's awareness), sometimes sly.

Hi J,

It is a term used in fishing: you put your line in the water, let your boat move very slowly, and see what takes the bait.

((I))

This term has been used on the internet for about 10 years. If you had been on any common BB or forum, you probably would have heard it.

Pronouncing someone a troll is the simple act of us actually giving you the benefit of the doubt, and assuming the stupid question posted is intentional.

Jules