Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Kobold | /ˈkoːbɔlt/ | masculine |
| Elf | /ʔɛlf/ | masculine |
| Elfe | /ˈɛlfə/ | feminine, masculine |
| Elfin | /ˈʔɛlfɪn/ | feminine |
These terms are used to describe supernatural beings such as an elf, a fairy or a goblin. The term Kobold specifically refers to a domestic spirit in German folklore that can either assist with household chores or cause mischief if it feels offended.
Which one should you use?
There is a distinction between the terms based on the nature of the creature. Kobold refers more specifically to a mischievous or even malevolent household spirit or goblin. In contrast, Elf refers to a more ethereal or high-fantasy being.
How does it change in a sentence?
Kobold is a masculine noun, and its plural form is Kobolde. For the word relating to elves, Elfe is the standard feminine form, but it is also frequently used in modern usage as a common gender noun for a single elf regardless of sex. The plural of Elfe is Elfen. Elfin is a feminine form.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkoːbɔlt/
Did you know?
- The word Kobold is the root for the chemical element Cobalt, as miners once believed the ore was replaced by these sprites.
- Modern German words for sprites like Elfe were actually borrowed from English in the 18th century.
Examples in context
- Ich hätte gerne ein Erfrischungsgetränk, am besten Sprite.I would like a refreshment drink, preferably Sprite.
- Der kleine Kobold versteckt die Schlüssel.The little goblin is hiding the keys.
- Ein Kobold lebt in diesem alten Baum.A sprite lives in this old tree.
- Hast du den Kobold im Garten gesehen?Did you see the goblin in the garden?
Example conversation
Felix and Laura are reading a fantasy book together.
- FelixSchau mal, da ist ein Kobold auf dem Bild!Look, there is a sprite in the picture!
- LauraEr sieht wirklich sehr frech aus.He looks really mischievous.
- FelixIch glaube, der Kobold stiehlt etwas.I think the sprite is stealing something.
- LauraJa, er nimmt den Ring mit.Yes, he is taking the ring with him.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sprite” translations and entries Kobold, Elf, Elfe, Elfin, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Elf, Elfe, Elfin, Kobold, elf, CC BY-SA 4.0.
