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Dwarfs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dwarfs

[dwษ”หfs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fantasy characters

Dwarfs are mythical creatures in folklore and fairy tales, typically depicted as small, bearded men who live underground and are skilled craftsmen. They are often associated with mining and are known for their strength and resilience.

Synonyms

elves, gnomes, goblins.

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Word Description / Examples
dwarfs

This is a repeat. Please ensure proper distinction in the group of words.
gnomes

Best used in fantasy or gardening contexts, these beings are usually small, Earth-dwelling creatures with a penchant for guarding treasures or gardens.

  • Garden gnomes are a popular decorative item
  • In folklore, gnomes are said to live underground
goblins

Mainly used in fantasy and horror contexts, goblins are often depicted as ugly, malicious creatures. The word carries a negative connotation.

  • Goblins in Harry Potter are clever but not to be trusted
  • In fairy tales, goblins often cause trouble
elves

Ideal for fantasy settings, this word describes magical, often tall and beautiful beings with pointed ears, commonly found in folklore and fantasy literature.

  • In The Lord of the Rings, the elves are graceful and wise creatures
  • Santa's elves make toys for Christmas

Examples of usage

  • They encountered a group of dwarfs in the dark cave.
  • The dwarfs worked tirelessly in their underground forges.
  • The seven dwarfs from Snow White are popular characters in fairy tales.
Context #2 | Noun

astronomy

In astronomy, a dwarf is a celestial body that is smaller than a planet but does not orbit another planet. Examples of dwarfs include dwarf planets like Pluto and Ceres, as well as dwarf stars like red dwarfs.

Synonyms

minor planet, small celestial body.

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Word Description / Examples
dwarfs

Used to describe when something seems small or less significant compared to something else. It has a negative connotation when referring to objects or achievements.

  • The tall skyscraper dwarfs the smaller buildings around it
  • His achievements are dwarfed by his brother's success
small celestial body

Refers to any small astronomical object such as asteroids, comets, and meteoroids.

  • Asteroids are considered small celestial bodies
  • Comets, as small celestial bodies, have icy cores that produce visible atmospheres when they approach the sun
minor planet

Used in the context of astronomy to refer to small celestial objects that orbit the sun but are not classified as major planets or comets.

  • Ceres is classified as a minor planet
  • Astronomers discovered a new minor planet in the asteroid belt

Examples of usage

  • Pluto was reclassified as a dwarf planet in 2006.
  • Dwarf stars are the most common type of stars in the universe.
Context #3 | Verb

to make appear small

To dwarf means to make something else seem small or insignificant in comparison. It can also refer to something that is extremely large in size, overshadowing everything else.

Synonyms

dominate, overshadow, tower over.

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Word Description / Examples
dwarfs

Used when one thing makes another thing seem very small or less important by comparison. This often applies to sizes, numbers, and achievements.

  • The new skyscraper dwarfs all the older buildings in the city
  • His success dwarfs everything else I've done in my career
overshadow

Used when something makes another thing less enjoyable or important by comparison, often with a slightly negative connotation.

  • The scandal overshadowed his achievements
  • Her sister's talent often overshadows her own efforts
dominate

Used to describe something that has control over a space, situation, or group of people. It implies power and influence.

  • The basketball team dominated the game from start to finish
  • Apple's products continue to dominate the technology market
tower over

Used when something or someone is physically much taller than another thing or person, and sometimes metaphorically to express dominance or superiority.

  • The castle towers over the small village
  • Despite his achievements, he knows he will never tower over his father in the eyes of others

Examples of usage

  • The skyscrapers dwarfed the surrounding buildings.
  • Her talent as a musician dwarfed that of her peers.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Mythology

  • In Norse mythology, dwarfs are regarded as master craftsmen who created legendary weapons like Thor's hammer, Mjรถlnir.
  • They were often depicted living underground or in mountains, showcasing their link to the earth and minerals.

Pop Culture

  • The Disney movie featuring Snow White introduced seven iconic dwarfs, each with distinct personalities, making them beloved characters worldwide.
  • The portrayal of dwarfs in fantasy literature has evolved, with many modern narratives depicting them as skilled warriors or wise figures.

Psychology

  • Studies show that representations of dwarfs in media can influence societal perceptions, impacting how individuals with dwarfism are viewed.
  • Positive portrayals contribute to reducing stereotypes, suggesting that diversity in characters fosters acceptance.

Literature

  • Beyond Tolkien, classic literature often features dwarfs as wise guide figures or loyal companions in adventure stories, enhancing the themes of friendship and bravery.
  • Modern fantasy series, like those by George R.R. Martin, expand upon dwarf cultures, emphasizing their unique societies and histories.

Origin of 'dwarfs'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from Old English 'dweorh', which referred to a creature from mythology, hinting at its magical connotations.
  • In the early times, the spelling evolved from 'dwarfs' to 'dwarves' due to influences from stories like J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Hobbit'.

The term 'dwarf' has its origins in Old English 'dweorg' and Old Norse 'dvergr', both referring to a mythical being. Over time, the word came to be associated with small stature or size. In astronomy, the classification of dwarf planets and stars has added a new dimension to the word's meaning.

See also: dwarf, dwarves.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,163, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.