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Definition of elfish

elfish

/ˈɛl.fɪʃ/
el · fish

Adverb:elfishly
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elfish Lexical Profile

elfish Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to, resembling, or characteristic of an elf, especially in having a small, delicate stature or pointed features.

Example

"The young actor had an elfish face with sharp cheekbones and bright, expressive eyes."


2

Playfully mischievous, Puckish, or slyly teasing in manner.

Example

"She gave an elfish grin before hiding the last piece of chocolate behind her back."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

While "elfish" and "elvish" are interchangeable in general contexts, "elvish" is strongly preferred in modern fantasy literature following J.R.R. Tolkien's preference for the voiced consonant.

• Rhymes for elfish

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from Old English "ælf" (elf) and the suffix "-isc" (-ish), originally referring to supernatural beings of Germanic folklore.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Elfish. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/elfish
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