First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
elf
elf
noun \ˈelf\
: a small creature in stories usually with pointed ears and magical powers
plural elves \ˈelvz\
Full Definition of ELF
1
:Â a small often mischievous fairy
2
:Â a small lively creature; also :Â a usually lively mischievous or malicious person
— elf·ish \ˈel-fish\ adjective
— elf·ish·ly adverb
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Examples of ELF
- <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
Related to ELF
ELF
abbreviation
Definition of ELF
extremely low frequency
Seen & Heard
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