dwarf
dwarf Lexical Profile
dwarf Game Scores & Validity
• noun
In Germanic folklore and fantasy literature, a short, stocky humanoid being typically depicted as a skilled miner, smith, and craftsman.
"The ancient legend tells of a mountain dwarf who forged a magical ring from pure gold."
A person, animal, or plant of abnormally small stature, especially a person affected by the medical condition of dwarfism.
"The documentary highlighted the everyday challenges faced by a dwarf navigating spaces designed for average-height adults."
A star of relatively small size and low or average luminosity, such as the sun.
"Astronomers observed a white dwarf cooling slowly at the center of the planetary nebula."
• verb
To cause something to seem small, insignificant, or unimportant by comparison.
"The new skyscraper will dwarf all the surrounding historic buildings in the district."
To stunt the growth or development of a plant or animal.
"Harsh winds and poor soil at high altitudes often dwarf the native pine trees."
• adjective
Of a botanical variety, animal breed, or celestial body that is much smaller than the usual size for its kind.
"We planted several dwarf conifers along the garden border to keep the view unobstructed."
Word Nuance & Usage
The plural form is traditionally 'dwarfs', though 'dwarves'—popularized by J.R.R. Tolkien—is standard when referring to the mythical beings of fantasy literature. When referring to people with dwarfism, person-first language or terms like 'little person' are often preferred in contemporary usage.
• Rhymes for dwarf
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English 'dweorg', of Proto-Germanic origin, originally referring to supernatural beings in Germanic mythology.