elfish

adjective

Definition of elfishnext
as in playful
given to good-natured joking or teasing an elfish comedian who often played lovable drunks and wisecracking sidekicks

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of elfish Santa’s elves are generous souls, not elfish. — Richard Lederer, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Dec. 2025 But showing a recent visitor his awards, Shannon, who at 75 has a shock of snowy hair and an elfish grin, seemed almost embarrassed. — John Horgan, IEEE Spectrum, 27 Apr. 2016
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elfish
playful
Adjective
  • Plus, beloved companions like Pascal and more are taking center stage in playful designs.
    — Casey DelBasso, ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026
  • This Damson Madder Myrtle Trench is the perfect way to incorporate the trend with fun, playful touches.
    — Tessa Petak, InStyle, 16 Aug. 2026
Definition of playful

Browse Nearby Words

elfin
elfish
elicit
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Elfish.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elfish. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of elfish for Spanish Speakers

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