The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Peri \Pe"ri\ (p[=e]"r[i^]), n.; pl. Peris (p[=e]"r[i^]z).
   [Per. per[imac] a female genus, a fairy.] (Persian Myth.)
   An imaginary being, male or female, like an elf or fairy,
   represented as a descendant of fallen angels, excluded from
   paradise till penance is accomplished. --Moore.
   [1913 Webster]