dwarf

English

/dwɔɹf/, /dwɔːf/

noun
Definitions
  • (mythology) Any member of a race of beings from (especially Scandinavian and other Germanic) folklore, usually depicted as having some sort of supernatural powers and being skilled in crafting and metalworking, often as short with long beards, and sometimes as clashing with elves.
  • (now) A person of short stature, often one whose limbs are disproportionately small in relation to the body as compared with normal adults, usually as the result of a genetic condition.
  • An animal, plant or other thing much smaller than the usual of its sort.
  • (star) A star of relatively small size.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English dwerf inherited from Old English dweorh inherited from *dwerg inherited from Proto-Germanic *dwergaz (dwarf).

Origin

Proto-Germanic

*dwergaz

Gloss

dwarf

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms