English Reference

Word

elves

US/ˈɛɫvz/

UK/ˈɛlvz/

Definitions

01magical creatures

B1

n. more than one elf; magical people in stories who are often small or have pointed ears.

n. the plural of 'elf', denoting supernatural beings in folklore and fantasy fiction, often characterised by magical powers and longevity.

“In many Christmas stories, elves help Santa Claus make toys for children.”

“The author drew heavily on Norse mythology, depicting the elves as ancient guardians of the forest who remained hidden from human eyes.”

Pitfall

The story was about three elfs.

The story was about three elves.

Nouns ending in -f often change to -ves in the plural; 'elf' always becomes 'elves'.

Synonyms

02fantasy race

B2

n. in modern games and films, a tall and elegant group of people with pointed ears.

n. a distinct humanoid race in modern high fantasy, typically portrayed as tall, graceful, and skilled in archery or magic.

“The elves in the movie were tall and lived for hundreds of years.”

“Unlike the diminutive figures of folklore, the elves in this RPG setting are a powerful political faction with a sophisticated maritime culture.”

This entry

Level
B1 · Intermediate
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

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