What is the difference between a sprite and a fairy?

Answer 1

There seems to be a little debate, so I will give you several views on the subject:

Sprite [ sprīt ] (plural sprites)

noun

Definition: 1. supernatural elfin creature: in folklore, a small supernatural being like an elf or a fairy, especially one associated with water

2. somebody like elf: a small or delicately built person who is likened to an elf or a fairy

3. ghost: in folklore, a ghost or spirit

4. comput independent graphic object: an independent graphic object that moves freely across a computer screen

several types of fairies. * Elvish ones: strong, manlike, portrayed by Tolkien.

* Archangel ones: again, strong and manlike, but completed with wings.

* Wood fairies: all green and gold and earthy.

* The aforementioned sea fairies: glistening like jewels.

* Selkies: the seal people.

* Camouflage fairies: fairies that change size, color, and location when the notion strikes them.

* Dryads: spirits of trees.

* Nymphs: spirits of wells and streams.

* Tooth fairies: round and jovial (and of course, filthy rich!)

* Pixies: wee green or blue beings that shed showers of sparkles. * http://www.christianfantasy.net/towerofivory/articles/lizzienden7.htmlSprites do not have wings and are a little large and slightly more robust than the average fairy. They relie more on quickness and elusiveness than fairies. Their diet is more varied and they are not rigidily dependent on any one plant for their livelihood.