elf arrow en · NOUN
Etymology
From the folk belief that they were used by elves.
Meanings
- A prehistoric flint arrowhead.
- An elf-bolt or belemnite.
-
A magical arrow (weapon) used by elves or other mythological beings.
When they want beef or mutton on any festal occasion, they betake themselves to the Shetlanders' scatholds or townmails, and with elf-arrows bring down their game.
1828, Thomas Keightley, The Fairy Mythology, volume I, London: William Harrison Ainsworth, page 262:
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| elf arrows | Number=Plur | lexicographic |