How to pronounce elf
Say it like ELF. Elf is a single syllable, so the whole word carries the stress.
- ELF
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Elf pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- ELFSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
American vs British pronunciation of elf
American and British speakers say elf in essentially the same way: /ɛlf/ in the US and /ɛlf/ in the UK.
British respelling: ELF.
What does elf mean?
- A supernatural being or spirit associated with illness, mischief, and harmful or dangerous magical influence; in later Norse sources, sometimes divided into benevolent light elves (inhabiting Álfheimr) and malevolent dark elves.
- A small, magical creature similar to a fairy, often mischievous, playful, or occasionally helpful.
- A member of a race of tall, slender, graceful beings with pointed ears, typically immortal or very long-lived and possessing wisdom and magical abilities.
Where does elf come from?
From Middle English elf, from Old English ielf, ælf, from Proto-West Germanic *albi, from Proto-Germanic *albiz.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with elf
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of elf.
Questions about saying elf
How do you pronounce elf?
Say ELF. The American pronunciation is /ɛlf/. In British English it is /ɛlf/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in elf?
Elf is a single syllable, so the whole word carries the stress. Broken into parts: ELF.
Do Americans and Brits say elf the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ɛlf/ and the British form is /ɛlf/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.