What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gnome
Example
The gnome in the story helped the protagonist find the hidden treasure. [gnome: noun]
Example
She had a collection of gnomes in her garden, each with a unique pose and expression. [gnomes: plural noun]
Example
He may be short, but he's a tough gnome who doesn't take any nonsense. [gnome: adjective]
pixie
Example
The pixie in the story played pranks on the humans, but meant no harm. [pixie: noun]
Example
She decided to get a pixie cut for a bold and edgy look. [pixie: noun]
Example
He's a little pixie who never seems to run out of energy or ideas. [pixie: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gnome is more commonly used than pixie in everyday language, especially in the context of garden ornaments or decorations. Pixie is more commonly used in the context of hairstyles or to describe a person's personality.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gnome and pixie?
Neither gnome nor pixie is particularly formal or informal, and both can be used in a variety of contexts without sounding out of place.