fair•y(fâr′ē),USA pronunciationn., pl.fair•ies,adj. n.
Mythology(in folklore) one of a class of supernatural beings, generally conceived as having a diminutive human form and possessing magical powers with which they intervene in human affairs.
Slang Terms(disparaging and offensive). a male homosexual.
adj.
of or pertaining to fairies:fairy magic.
of the nature of a fairy; fairylike.
Fine ArtSee fairy green.
Old French: enchantment, fairyland. See fay1, -ery
Middle English faierie 1250–1300
1.See corresponding entry in Unabridged pixy, leprechaun. Fairy,brownie,elf,sprite are terms for imaginary beings usually less than human size, thought to be helpful or harmful to people. Fairy is the most general name for such beings:a good fairy as a godmother; misadventures caused by an evil fairy.A brownie is a good-natured tiny being who appears usually at night to do household tasks:Perhaps the brownies will come and mow the lawn tonight.Elf suggests a young, mischievous or roguish fairy:That child is a perfect little elf.Sprite suggests a fairy of pleasing appearance, older than an elf, to be admired for ease and lightness of movement; it may, however, be impish or even hostile:a dainty sprite.