elfo
/ˈelfo/masculine
The Spanish word for elf is elfo.
In a fantasy context, elfo refers to a magical, typically forest-guarding creature.
Meaning: fantasy: magical, typically forest-guarding creature (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the word Trasgo is more common. While it is often translated as goblin, it can also refer to certain kinds of elves. In Mexican folklore, the term Chaneque is used to describe mischievous and magical beings similar to elves.
How does it change in a sentence?
The masculine form is elfo. The feminine form is elfa, and the plural masculine form is elfos. For a group of female elves, use the feminine plural elfas.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈelfo/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, the word duende is used to describe magical, elf-like creatures. While it is often translated as 'goblin' or 'sprite', it can also refer to the 'spirit' or 'charm' found in music and art.
- The term elfo is a relatively modern loanword influenced by English and Germanic mythology, whereas duende has deeper roots in Iberian folklore.
- If you are reading a fantasy novel in Spanish, you might see the word sylfo used for air-elemental beings. This is a more archaic or poetic way to describe a specific type of ethereal elf or spirit.
Examples in context
- ¡Papá, he visto un elfo!Dad, I saw an elf!This sentence is useful for expressing seeing an elf to a parent.Tatoeba #9446413 by ignacio, translation #9446562 by DJ_Saidez
- Creo que he visto a un elfo en el bosque.I think that I saw an elf in the forest.This sentence is useful for describing seeing an elf in a forest.Tatoeba #4621505 by Shishir, translation #12920187 by araneo
- Puedes hacer de humano, de elfo o de enano.You can play as a human, as an elf or as a dwarf.This sentence is useful for discussing different character roles in a game.Tatoeba #10247930 by Seael, translation #7010277 by Hybrid
- La celebración contará con la presencia de hadas y elfos mágicos.The celebration will feature the presence of magical fairies and elves.
- El bosque encantado está lleno de elfos misteriosos.The enchanted forest is filled with mysterious elves.
- Mi hermana tiene un duende travieso en su jardín.My sister has a mischievous sprite in her garden.
- El gnomo de la película tiene características similares a los elfos.The gnome in the movie has features similar to elves.
- Los trasgos son criaturas que se asemejan a los elfos.Goblins are creatures that resemble elves.
- Los chaneques son conocidos por jugar bromas a los humanos.Chaneques are known for playing tricks on humans.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are discussing a fantasy novel.
- JavierEl elfo es el protagonista de la historia.The elf is the protagonist of the story.
- Elena¿Es un elfo valiente o un elfo malvado?Is he a brave elf or an evil elf?
- JavierEs un elfo muy sabio y antiguo.He is a very wise and ancient elf.
- ElenaMe encanta ese personaje.I love that character.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “elf” translations and entries elfo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
