# elves

/ˈɛɫvz/ (US) · /ˈɛlvz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/elves
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. magical creatures

noun · CEFR B1

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. fantasy race

noun · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The children believe that tiny elves live in the garden.
- In many fantasy novels, elves are portrayed as immortal beings with a deep connection to nature and ancient magic.
- The mythic depiction of elves has evolved from the mischievous sprites of Germanic folklore into the tall, graceful, and highly skilled warriors found in modern high fantasy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.