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elfin

 - 2 dictionary results

elf⋅in

  [el-fin]
Use elfin in a Sentence
–adjective
1. of or like an elf.
2. small and charmingly spritely, merry, or mischievous.
–noun
3. an elf.
Origin:
1560–70; alter. of ME elven elf, OE elfen, ælfen nymph, equiv. to ælf elf + -en fem. suffix (c. G -in); ælf c. G Alp nightmare, puck, ON alfr elf
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To elfin
elf·in   (ěl'fĭn)   
adj.  

    1. Relating to or suggestive of an elf.

    2. Made, done, or produced by an elf.

  2. Small and sprightly or mischievous.

  3. Having a magical quality or charm; fairylike: moved across the dimly lit stage with elfin grace.


[Probably from Middle English elvene, pl. of elve, elf, from Old English -elfen (as in wuduelfen, dryad); see albho- in Indo-European roots.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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