A fairy is a type of mythical being that feature heavily in the folklore of the British Isles. Fairies are generally described as human in appearance and having magical powers.
Their origins are less clear in the folklore, being variously dead, or some form of demon, or a species completely independent of humans or angels. Much of the folklore about fairies revolves around protection from their malice. One common theme found among the Celtic cultures describes a race of diminutive people who had been driven into hiding by invading humans.
When considered as beings that a person might actually encounter, fairies were noted for their mischief and malice. Fairies appeared in medieval romances as one of the beings that a knight errant might encounter.
Notable fairy creatures encountered include The Green Knight.