How to pronounce elfin
Say it like EL-fin. Elfin has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (EL).
- EL
- fin
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Elfin pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- ELSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- finKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of elfin
American and British speakers say elfin in essentially the same way: /ˈɛlfɪn/ in the US and /ˈɛlfɪn/ in the UK.
British respelling: EL-fin.
What does elfin mean?
- An elf; an inhabitant of fairy-land.
- A little urchin or child.
- Any of the butterflies in the subgenus Incisalia of the North American lycaenid genus Callophrys.
- Of or relating to elves.
- Resembling an elf or elves, especially in tiny size or features.
Where does elfin come from?
From Middle English elven, from Old English elfen, ælfen (“nymph, spirit, fairy”), feminine of elf, ælf (“elf”), equivalent to elf + -in.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying elfin
How do you pronounce elfin?
Say EL-fin. The American pronunciation is /ˈɛlfɪn/. In British English it is /ˈɛlfɪn/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in elfin?
Elfin has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (EL). Broken into parts: EL · fin.
Do Americans and Brits say elfin the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈɛlfɪn/ and the British form is /ˈɛlfɪn/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.