Elfin
adjective
Looking like an elf or a fairy; small, delicate and charming, often with a suggestion of mischievousness or magic.
The child has an elfin face with sparkling eyes.
Often appears as...
- elfin face
- elfin charm
noun
Another term for an elf, especially in fantasy literature or role-playing games.
He played as an elfin character in the game.
Often appears as...
- elfin character
- elfin race
Usage tips
Academic
adjective
Looking like an elf or a fairy; small, delicate and charming, often with a suggestion of mischievousness or magic.
The child has an elfin face with sparkling eyes.
Often appears as...
- elfin face
- elfin charm
noun
Another term for an elf, especially in fantasy literature or role-playing games.
He played as an elfin character in the game.
Often appears as...
- elfin character
- elfin race
Usage tips
Academic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Mythical Association
Elfin evokes enchanting qualities linked to elves and fairies in folklore, which can add a magical or mystical tone.
The garden had an elfin quality, as if hidden creatures watched from behind the leaves.
Pro Tip 2/3Physical Appearance
Elfin often describes physical traits like smallness and delicacy, which can imply youthful charm.
She had elfin features that made her appear eternally youthful.
Pro Tip 3/3Suggestive of Mischief
Elfin can hint at playful mischievousness, suggesting someone's personality is impish or cheeky.
His elfin grin suggested he was up to something amusing.
Pro Tip 1/3Mythical Association
Elfin evokes enchanting qualities linked to elves and fairies in folklore, which can add a magical or mystical tone.
The garden had an elfin quality, as if hidden creatures watched from behind the leaves.
Pro Tip 2/3Physical Appearance
Elfin often describes physical traits like smallness and delicacy, which can imply youthful charm.
She had elfin features that made her appear eternally youthful.
Pro Tip 3/3Suggestive of Mischief
Elfin can hint at playful mischievousness, suggesting someone's personality is impish or cheeky.
His elfin grin suggested he was up to something amusing.
Pro Tip 1/3Mythical Association
Elfin evokes enchanting qualities linked to elves and fairies in folklore, which can add a magical or mystical tone.
The garden had an elfin quality, as if hidden creatures watched from behind the leaves.
Pro Tip 2/3Physical Appearance
Elfin often describes physical traits like smallness and delicacy, which can imply youthful charm.
She had elfin features that made her appear eternally youthful.
Pro Tip 3/3Suggestive of Mischief
Elfin can hint at playful mischievousness, suggesting someone's personality is impish or cheeky.
His elfin grin suggested he was up to something amusing.
Never forget "Elfin"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension