Literary notes about sylphlike (AI summary)
Literary authors use "sylphlike" to evoke a sense of graceful, airy elegance that is both physical and symbolic. It often describes figures whose delicate outlines and refined movements imply an almost ethereal quality, as seen when a character's well-rounded, yet imposing form is contrasted with the more slender ideal [1]. In some contexts, the term carries an ironic edge, suggesting that maintaining such a lithe figure might require effort or even dietary discipline [2], while in other instances it extends to depict transformations—from a once-clumsy state evolving steadily toward a more nimble and refined existence [3]. This multifaceted usage enriches character portrayals by imbuing them with a blend of beauty, fragility, and an elusive, almost otherworldly charm [4].
- A figure of medium height, neither sylphlike nor slender, but of full physical outline, in points even imposing.
— from The Guerilla Chief, and Other Tales by Mayne Reid - Not that I mind, but if you’re going to keep that sylphlike figure you’d better go on a diet.”
— from The Lani People by Jesse F. Bone - Gradually the young bird emerged from its gruesome infancy, and day by day became more sylphlike.
— from In the Open: Intimate Studies and Appreciations of Nature by Stanton Davis Kirkham - Rupert was very proud of it, as well as of her regular and delicate features, her starry eyes, sylphlike form, and graceful movements.
— from Mildred at Home: With Something About Her Relatives and Friends. by Martha Finley
