/fair"ee/ , n. , pl. fairies , adj.
n.
1. (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.
2. Slang ( disparaging and offensive ). a male homosexual.
adj.
3. of or pertaining to fairies: fairy magic.
4. of the nature of a fairy; fairylike.
5. See fairy green .
[ 1250-1300; ME faierie 1 , -ERY ]
Syn. 1. 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.