Anyone who has ever seen or read Peter Pan knows that Tinkerbell, although darling to observe, had a dark side. There are many explanations regarding the historical origins and personalities of fairies. 

The word "fairy" comes from medieval Europe where the term "fae"  referred to legendary creatures of the metaphysical or supernatural.The word fey is used in modern usage to mean "fairylike".  The term fairy can be used to describe various mythological creatures, including, goblins, gnomes, pixies and other ethereal wee beings.

Although much folklore is about the dark side of fairies, such as stealing babies (changlings), etc. , it is more common today to think of them as whimsical and elusive. In early days they were thought to fly by magic, but nowadays are usually shown with butterfly type wings.

One viewpoint is that fairies are actually a race of tiny beings, different than angels or humans, living in hiding or may even be "demoted angels". Whatever their origin, the daintiness and elegance of fairies is a constant source of speculation and curiosity.