elfin

[ el-fin ]

adjective

1. of or like an elf.
2. small and charmingly spritely, merry, or mischievous.

noun

1. an elf.

elfin

/ ˈɛlfɪn /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or like an elf or elves
2. small, delicate, and charming

Word History and Origins

Origin of elfin¹

1560–70; alteration of Middle English elven elf, Old English elfen, ælfen nymph, equivalent to ælf elf + -en feminine suffix (cognate with German -in ); ælf cognate with German Alp nightmare, puck, Old Norse alfr elf

Example Sentences

Soon I was navigating the reading nooks and chef’s kitchens of an elfin cottage, a gothic coastal A-frame, a cozy “loch house” in the Scottish Highlands.

From New York Times

Smiling his little elfin smile, he sometimes looks no older than that 11-year-old boy who had the world taken from him.

From Los Angeles Times

"Chalamet is elfin and puckish, unworldly and possessed of a Paddingtonian innocence and charm - and a nice singing voice - without being insufferable," he wrote.

From BBC

With her elfin features and skinhead look she was one of pop music's most recognisable figures.

From BBC

Recognizable by her shaved head and elfin features, O’Connor began her career singing on the streets of Dublin and soon rose to international fame.

From Seattle Times