elf

¹ American  

[elf] / ɛlf /

noun

PLURAL

elves

1. (in folklore) one of a class of preternatural beings, especially from mountainous regions, with magical powers, given to capricious and often mischievous interference in human affairs, and usually imagined to be a diminutive being in human form; sprite; fairy.

2. a diminutive person, especially a child.

3. a mischievous person, especially a child.

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ELF ² American  

Or elf

abbreviation

Radio.

1. extremely low frequency.

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elf ¹ British  

/ ɛlf /

noun

1. (in folklore) one of a kind of legendary beings, usually characterized as small, manlike, and mischievous

2. a mischievous or whimsical child

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ELF ² British  

abbreviation

1. extremely low frequency

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Usage

Plural word for elf The plural form of elf is elves, pronounced [ elvz ]. The plurals of some other singular words that end -f are also formed in this way, including leaf/leaves, wife/wives, and knife/knives. A similar change is made when pluralizing hoof as hooves.Irregular plurals that are formed like elves derive directly from their original pluralization in Old English.

Related Words

See fairy.

Other Word Forms

• elflike adjective

Etymology

Origin of elf

First recorded before 1000; Middle English, from Old English ælf, elf, ylf, akin to Old High German alp “incubus” ( Middle High German alp , German Alp “nightmare”), Old Norse álfr, Danish alf “elf” ælfen; elfin

Example Sentences

She said she did not want to leave her job, but "had to make more money" and had worked in Tesco and as an elf at a Christmas event to supplement her pay from teaching.

From BBC

A family member sent me an image of a baby dressed in an elf outfit.

From The Wall Street Journal

Visitors won’t experience any flashing lights, dancing elves or blaring carols.

From Los Angeles Times

Elina, an elf working in Santa's post office, also worries about the future of Lapland's winters: "I'm wondering if heatwaves are now the new normal."

From BBC

When the topic turns to her bookshelf, Thurman admits she’s become a fan of stories of orcs and elves in love.

From Salon