elfo
/ˈɛw.fu/masculine
The Portuguese word for the fantasy concept of an elf is elfo.
The term elfo is used to refer to a magical, typically forest-guarding creature found in fantasy settings.
Meaning: fantasy: magical, typically forest-guarding creature (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The masculine form is elfo. To refer to a female elf, use elfa. For the plural form, use elfos.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable. The IPA is /ˈɛw.fu/.
Did you know?
- While elfo refers to fantasy creatures, the word duende in Spanish and Portuguese can also refer to a certain kind of mystical charisma or soulful passion in art and music.
- Portuguese speakers often distinguish between an elfo from modern fantasy and a duende, which is a traditional Iberian goblin or sprite.
- The Portuguese word elfo is a relatively modern addition to the language, as it was borrowed directly from the English word 'elf'.
Examples in context
- Tom é um elfo.Tom is an elf.This sentence is useful for identifying a specific person as an elfo.Tatoeba #6323798 by anthrax26, translation #6323166 by Hybrid
- O que é um elfo?What's an elf?This sentence is useful for asking for a definition of an elfo.Tatoeba #3072524 by Ricardo14, translation #9237580 by CK
- Ele era gordinho e rechonchudo, um velho elfo muito alegre.He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf.This sentence is useful for describing the physical appearance and temperament of a jolly old elfo.Tatoeba #10718769 by carlosalberto, translation #8997455 by mccarras
- Os elfos são seres mitológicos conhecidos por sua beleza e magia.Elves are mythical beings known for their beauty and magic.
- O protagonista do livro é um elfo que vive na floresta encantada.The protagonist of the book is an elf who lives in the enchanted forest.
- Apesar de ser um elfo, ele tinha uma aparência similar à de uma fada.Despite being an elf, he had a similar appearance to that of a fairy.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Mariana and Rodrigo are playing a fantasy tabletop game.
- MarianaEu quero jogar com um elfo.I want to play with an elf.
- RodrigoVocê prefere um elfo guerreiro ou um mago?Do you prefer an elf warrior or a mage?
- MarianaUm elfo arqueiro seria perfeito.An elf archer would be perfect.
- RodrigoEntão esse será o seu personagem.Then that will be your character.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “elf” translations and entries elfo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries elfo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
