elf

elf

noun \ˈelf\

plural elves\ˈelvz\

Definition of ELF

1

: a small often mischievous fairy

2

: a small lively creature; also : a usually lively mischievous or malicious person

— elf·ish \ˈel-fish\ adjective

— elf·ish·ly adverb

Examples of ELF

1. <elves are often portrayed as rather mischievous>

Origin of ELF

Middle English, from Old English ælf; akin to Old Norse alfr elf & perhaps to Latin albus white — more at alb

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to ELF

Synonyms: brownie, dwarf, fairy, faerie (also faery), fay, gnome, goblin, gremlin, hobgoblin, kobold, leprechaun, pixie (also pixy), puck, sprite, troll

Related Words: little people; kelpie, nixie; changeling; imp; banshee, ghoul, hag, ogre

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Rhymes with ELF

Guelf, pelf, self, shelf