Fairies are mythical beings of folklore and romance. They are often depicted as diminutive winged humans with magical powers. The tooth fairy exchanges presents, usually coins, for teeth left out or under one's pillow at night.
Fairy godmothers are protective beings, like guardian angels .
Fairies should not be confused with gnomes, which are also mythical diminutive humans but are deformed and live underground. Pixies, on the other hand, might be considered a type of fairy known for their cheerful nature and playful mischievousness. An elf might be thought of as a big pixie, often depicted as a mischievous dwarf, such as the Irish leprechaun known for his pranks but also believed to know where treasure is hidden. Elves are sometimes depicted as helpers of magicians, e.g., Santa's helpers. Belief in such mythical beings seems common in rural peoples around the world.