Sylph Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sylph
[sɪlf ]
Definition
mythological creature
A sylph is a mythological air spirit or elemental being that is often depicted as a slender, graceful woman with wings. In folklore, sylphs are believed to inhabit the air and are associated with the element of air. They are often described as ethereal and delicate beings.
Synonyms
air spirit, elemental being, spirit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sylph |
Used to describe a graceful and ethereal female spirit, often associated with the element of air in folklore and fantasy literature.
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| air spirit |
Refers to a metaphysical or supernatural being that is associated with the element of air. Commonly used in mythology, fantasy stories, and spiritual contexts.
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| elemental being |
Describes any supernatural entity that embodies one of the classical elements (air, earth, fire, water). Suitable for fantasy genres and role-playing games.
|
| spirit |
A general term for a supernatural or non-physical entity. Can be used in a variety of contexts from religious to folklore to describe entities without physical form.
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Examples of usage
- The sylph danced gracefully through the clouds.
- Legends speak of sylphs guarding the skies.
- The sylph's wings shimmered in the sunlight.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Sylphs are commonly featured in romantic poetry and are often depicted as graceful and delicate beings.
- The most famous reference comes from the 1712 poem 'The Rape of the Lock' by Alexander Pope, where sylphs protect the heroine's honor.
Cultural References
- In the 18th century, sylphs were part of the Romantic imagination, symbolizing beauty and elegance in art and fashion.
- The concept of sylphs has influenced various art forms including ballet, where dancers embody these airy spirits.
Psychology
- The ethereal qualities of sylphs evoke feelings of lightness and freedom, often representing ideals of unattainable beauty.
- They are sometimes used in modern psychological symbolism to represent the delicate balance between mind and emotion.
Mythology
- In alchemical texts, sylphs are considered elemental spirits of air, believed to embody the qualities of clarity and fluidity.
- They are characterized as protectors of air and the sky, often envisioned as benevolent spirits guiding the winds.
Origin of 'sylph'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the German 'luf' meaning air, and the Latin 'sylva' meaning forest, combining elements of air and nature.
- In the 16th century, the term began to be used in literature to describe an ethereal being or fairy.
The term 'sylph' originated in the 16th century from the Latin word 'sylpha', which came from the Greek word 'sylphes' meaning 'butterfly'. Sylphs were popularized in the 18th century by alchemists and mystics, who believed in the existence of these elemental beings. Over time, sylphs became a common figure in literature and art, symbolizing the ethereal and elusive qualities of air.