The Leprechaun is a mystical fairy that is popular in Irish folklore. The Leprechaun is supposedly a small man who causes mischief with his human counterparts. Humans hunt leprechauns in search of their legendary "pot of gold".
The Legend
The term leprechaun might have originated in the Irish word for shoemaker (leath bhrogan) or pygmy (luacharma'n). According to the legend, leprechaun are old and drinks a lot of poteen, alcohol made during the production of whiskey. The leprechaun is related to the Irish mythological creature clurichaun, who is believed to steal and borrow almost anything. Leprechauns are believed to carry two coins with them, a magical silver coin which returns to the leprechaun's purse every time it's given away, and a gold coin the leprechaun uses when he attempts to bribe others.Ireland's Eye: Irish Fairies: Leprechaun
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Fast Facts
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Popular Irish legend
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A male faerie
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People used to believe they wore read; now many saw they are dressed in green
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It is said leprechauns are wealthy, but hide their treasures
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Some say leprechauns can be found at the end of a rainbow with a pot of gold
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Said to be shoe makers
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Heavy drinkers
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Avoid contact with humans
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Mascot of Lucky Charms cereal, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
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Featured in a series of horror movies
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The name of a 1993 leprechaun horror film featuring Jennifer Aniston
