ELFIN

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does elfin mean? 

• ELFIN (adjective)
  The adjective ELFIN has 4 senses:

1. suggestive of an elf in strangeness and otherworldliness

2. small and delicate

3. relating to or made or done by or as if by an elf

4. usually good-naturedly mischievous

  Familiarity information: ELFIN used as an adjective is uncommon.

 Dictionary entry details 

• ELFIN (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Suggestive of an elf in strangeness and otherworldliness

Synonyms:

elfin; fey

Context example:

the fey quality was there, the ability to see the moon at midday

Similar:

supernatural (not existing in nature or subject to explanation according to natural laws; not physical or material)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Small and delicate

Synonyms:

elfin; elflike

Context example:

obsessed by things elfin and small

Similar:

little; small (limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent)

Sense 3

Meaning:

Relating to or made or done by or as if by an elf

Classified under:

Relational adjectives (pertainyms)

Context example:

all the little creatures joined in the elfin dance

Pertainym:

elf ((folklore) fairies that are somewhat mischievous)

Sense 4

Meaning:

Usually good-naturedly mischievous

Synonyms:

elfin; elfish; elvish

Context example:

elvish tricks

Similar:

playful (full of fun and high spirits)