sylph

noun \ˈsilf\

: a thin and graceful woman or girl

Full Definition of SYLPH

: an elemental being in the theory of Paracelsus that inhabits air

: a slender graceful woman or girl

— sylph·like \ˈsil-ˌflīk\ adjective

See sylph defined for English-language learners

See sylph defined for kids

New Latin sylphus

First Known Use: 1657

Next Word in the Dictionary: sylphicPrevious Word in the Dictionary: syllogizeAll Words Near: sylph

What made you want to look up sylph? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears