plural fairies
1
: a mythical being of folklore and romance usually having diminutive human form and magic powers
2
slang, offensive : a gay person
used as a term of abuse and disparagement
fairy adjective
fairylike adjective

Examples of fairy in a Sentence

fairies are part of the folklore of many countries and cultures
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Pair the duo with fairy lights, a thin linen runner, and more faux foliage to create a stunning seasonal scene. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Sep. 2025 The fairy houses – known as domus de janas in Sardinian – date back over 5,000 years to the late Neolithic and Copper Age. Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 4 Sep. 2025 From dreamy fairy shimmer that feels perfect for date night, to sultry wine tones that look just right wrapped around a glass of merlot at Sunday dinner, these nails are setting the mood for the season. Essence, 2 Sep. 2025 Incurring the wrath of the fairy folk for spilling milk, that’s what. Lincee Ray Published, EW.com, 22 Aug. 2025 The lottery fairies have given you more time. Enquirer Staff, Cincinnati Enquirer, 18 Aug. 2025 The festival features competitions in archery, belly dancing, murals, axe throwing, barbecue, fairy houses and gardening. Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 14 Aug. 2025 While the indoor show will be missing the trees and outdoor ambiance, DeLancett and Hayes worked to craft photo ops with mermaids, fairies, wizards and birds of prey. Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 Aug. 2025 Seeing the fairies given to several fans after the performance was endearing, especially seeing their faces light up. Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fairie fairyland, enchantment, from Anglo-French faerie, from fee fairy, from Latin Fata, goddess of fate, from fatum fate

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fairy was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fairy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fairy. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

fairy

noun
ˈfa(ə)r-ē How to pronounce fairy (audio)
ˈfe(ə)r-
plural fairies
: an imaginary being usually having a small human form and magic powers
fairy adjective
fairylike adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on fairy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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