# faire

/ˈfɛɹ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/faire
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

an old-fashioned way of spelling 'fair'. It describes something that is beautiful, light in color, or honest.

For teachers: an archaic orthographic variant of 'fair'. It functions as a descriptor for aesthetic beauty, light complexion, or equitable treatment in historical or literary contexts.

## Examples

- The knight spoke of a faire maiden in the castle.
- In many medieval manuscripts, the word faire is used to praise the physical beauty of noble women.
- The poet lamented that time would eventually fade even the most faire countenance, turning youth into the grey shadows of old age.

## Pitfalls

- Not "She is a faire person." but "She is a fair person." — The spelling 'faire' is archaic and should not be used in modern English unless intentionally mimicking historical writing.

## Usage notes

- Archaic spelling; primarily encountered in Early Modern English texts or fantasy literature to evoke a historical atmosphere.

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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.