Alf

/ælf/ noun

Definition

A name sometimes used to refer to an alien or extraterrestrial being, popularized by a 1980s TV character.

Etymology

Originally an acronym from the TV show 'ALF' (Alien Life Form), first aired in 1986. The term became colloquial shorthand for any silly or mischievous alien character, though it started as a proper name.

Kelly Says

ALF the TV character—a furry alien from Planet Melmac—became so iconic that the word 'alf' entered casual vocabulary to mean any cheeky extraterrestrial. Kids in the '80s loved him because he ate cats and made terrible puns!

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