Hob over the wall

An early name for a concealed spirit, perceived only by his voice. Similarly, a Hob in the well was a spirit whose voice was supposed to be heard in a well.

References

Source

  • Scott, C.P.G. (1895). "The Devil and His Imps: An Etymological Inquisition." In Transactions of the American Philological Association. Vol. 26. Boston: Ginn & Co., p. 108.