1. 1. Relating to or suggestive of an elf.
   2. Made, done, or produced by an elf.
2. Small and sprightly or mischievous.
3. Having a magical quality or charm; fairylike: moved across the dimly lit stage with elfin grace.

[Probably from Middle English elvene, pl. of elve, elf, from Old English -elfen (as in wuduelfen, dryad).]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.