An elf is a humanoid being usually considered one of the many types of little people, commonly associated with Santa Claus. They are generally said to have elfin features such as colorless hair, pointed ears, and pale or discolored bodies. With the advent of The Lord of the Rings, the popular elvish stereotype became humanoids that were taller, fairer and more graceful than humans, though in truth J.R.R. Tolkien got this version from of the elves of Norse Mythology. They are often characterized by pointy ears, though the length of them differs greatly depending on the story, and they may have immortal or centuries-long lives. They often have non-human hair colors, like Celeborn's silver hair, and, in World of Warcraft, the night elves have blue or green hair.
They are also known to use bows, and sometimes magic, though other weapons are used occasionally.