Definition

Noun: 1. The enchanted realm of fairies: The magical, supernatural world or domain where fairies are said to live. 2. A small being, human in form, playful and having magical powers: A mythical creature, often depicted as a small, delicate, and magical human-like entity; a fairy.

Usage and Examples

• As the enchanted realm:

  • The story transported the children to a mystical faery deep within the ancient forest.
  • Legends speak of a hidden entrance to the faery, visible only under a full moon.

• As a magical being:

  • A tiny faery with gossamer wings flitted from flower to flower.
  • In the tale, a kind faery granted the woodcutter three wishes.

Advanced Usage

• "Faery" as an attributive noun (used like an adjective): Describing something as being of, from, or like the fairy realm.
  • The glen had a distinct faery quality, with its glowing mushrooms and whispering leaves.
  • She wore a dress of faery silk that shimmered in the light.

Variants and Related Words

• Faerie: An alternative, often more archaic or literary, spelling with the same meanings.
  • The old book was titled "Tales of Faerie."
• Fairy: The more common modern spelling. "Faery" and "faerie" are often used to evoke a more ancient, Celtic, or romantic feeling than "fairy."
• Fey: (Adjective) Having an otherworldly, magical, or supernatural quality; often associated with fairies.

Synonyms

• Sprite: A small, elusive supernatural being.
• Pixie: A playful fairy-like creature, often with pointed ears.
• Nymph: A mythological spirit of nature, often depicted as a beautiful maiden.
• Elf: A mythical, often pointy-eared creature, sometimes associated with magic and forests.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• Faery ring: A naturally occurring ring of mushrooms, believed in folklore to be a place where fairies dance.
  • The children dared each other to step inside the faery ring.
• Faery tale / Fairy tale: A story about magical and imaginary beings and lands.
  • "Cinderella" is a classic faery tale.
• Faery godmother: A benevolent fairy who acts as a protector and benefactor.
  • In the story, her faery godmother transformed a pumpkin into a carriage.

Noun

1. the enchanted realm of fairies
2. a small being, human in form, playful and having magical powers