ENGLISH
REFERENCE

dwarfs

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈdwɔɹfs// UK //dwˈɔːfs// dwarfs

n. very small people or creatures in stories, or stars that are not very large or bright.

n. individuals of much smaller than ordinary stature; in astronomy, stars of relatively small size and low luminosity.


SIMPLE

The story features seven dwarfs who live in a small cottage.

CONTEXTUAL

Astronomers have identified several white dwarfs in that distant galaxy using the new telescope.

COMPLEX

In Germanic folklore, dwarfs are often depicted as skilled miners and smiths who dwell within mountains and possess great magical knowledge.

Synonyms
Usage

The plural 'dwarfs' is standard in modern English; 'dwarves' is also common, particularly in fantasy literature.

Pitfall

The seven dwarfesThe seven dwarfsWhile 'dwarves' is a popular variant in fiction, 'dwarfs' is the standard plural form in general and scientific contexts.

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