Halfling

Halfling is a fictional humanoid race found in fantasy literature and role-playing games. They are typically depicted as small, about three feet tall, with a sturdy build and a cheerful demeanor. The term is most closely associated with J. R. R. Tolkien's hobbits, whom humans sometimes refer to as halflings, a name that later spread to many games and settings.

Halflings commonly feature earthy features, with a love of comfort, food, and family. They are often depicted as nimble, quick-witted, and discreet, with a talent for avoiding danger and moving quietly. Socially they live in close-knit communities, value hospitality and self-reliance, and prefer rural, agrarian lifestyles over grand adventures.

In many settings, halflings are proficient at stealth, luck, and resilience. In role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Pathfinder, they are a playable race known for dexterity, small size, and resilience. They often favor the favored class of rogue or ranger and tend to live longer than humans, with lifespans up to around 100-150 years. Subraces and variations exist depending on the edition.

Literary and media portrayals of halflings range from Tolkien's hobbits—Bilbo and Frodo Baggins—to modern games, where halflings appear as cheerful, brave, and resourceful adventurers. The archetype has become a staple of fantasy universes, serving as a counterpoint to larger, more martial races.