elf

/ɛlf/

/ɛlf/

Other forms: elves; elfs

An elf is a mythological creature that's said to be tiny, magical, and a little mischievous. Elves are not just known for giving Santa a hand. In fact, ancient Anglo-Saxon medical books ascribed some illnesses to elves.

Old English texts often blamed elves for sharp pains and mental disturbances — they were said to cause illness with sharp weapons, such as arrows. The folklore and myths of Scotland, Iceland, and Germany are particularly famous for the inclusion of elves. An elf's tiny size has also led to the use of elfin or elf-like to describe a small person's features: "His little elfin nose was so cute."

Definitions of elf

1. noun

   (folklore) a small fairy-like creature that is somewhat mischievous
   synonyms: brownie, gremlin, hob, imp, pixie, pixy

   types:

   leprechaun

   a mischievous elf in Irish folklore

   sandman

   an elf in fairy stories who sprinkles sand in children's eyes to make them sleepy

   type of:

   faerie, faery, fairy, fay, sprite

   a small being, human in form, playful and having magical powers