foil literature part of speech

What is a Foil? Definition, Examples of Literary Foil Characters

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Foil definition: A foil is a literary character that is intended to highlight attributes in another character through opposing traits.

What is a Foil?

What is a foil character? A foil is a literary character that is intended to highlight attributes in another character through opposing traits.

An author creates a foil to emphasize traits in another character. Foils aren’t necessarily opposites; however, they highlight opposing traits.

The Harry Potter Series characters Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy are a modern example of this type of foil.

Foil vs. Antagonist: What is the Difference?

An antagonist is a character “against” the protagonist. In a literary plot, an antagonist hinders the course of the protagonist. The antagonist “antagonizes” the protagonist.

These two elements seem very similar because both a foil and an antagonist seem to be “against” a character. However, a foil can be created for any character whereas an antagonist only hinders the protagonist.

Additionally, an antagonist and a foil may be the same character at times, which may add some confusion.

Literary Foil Examples:

In the Harry Potter example above, Draco Malfoy serves as both a foil and an antagonist. He possesses opposing traits and he hinders Harry Potter’s courses of action.

In Romeo and Juliet , Paris might serve as a foil for Romeo, but he is not really an antagonist. Paris represents someone who tries to marry Juliet respectfully while Romeo represents a character rebelling against societal standards.

The Purpose of a Foil Character

Creating a foil character or characters requires finesse. A writer does not want to directly state the opposing traits. It is the reader’s responsibility to acknowledge that these two characters act in contrasting ways.

Through characterization of narration and dialogue, the writer creates foils to bring forward the traits of the other. Essentially, a foil is created so that the reader will “feel” a certain way. If the author wants a reader to like or dislike a particular character, he might create a foil to emphasize those qualities.

Examples of Foil Characters in Literature

Penelope remains on Ithaca and waits for her husband’s return from battling for Greece in the Trojan War. For 20 years she waits, raising their son, reigning as queen, protecting the throne.

Meanwhile, Odysseus’ journey home from war lasts ten years. While making his way, he encounters the goddess Circe. She acts as a foil to Penelope.

Penelope’s honesty and determination are highlighted against Circe’s indulgent and decadent lifestyle. Compared to them, Penelope seems even more pure, more angelic, more virtuous.

Homer includes this foil in literature for the audience to acknowledge how determined Penelope is, even when her husband is not.

Summary: Foil Character Definition

Define foil in literature: the definition of foil is a literary character that is meant to highlight and amplify characteristic in another character by possessing opposite traits.

To sum up, a foil character:

• highlights opposing traits
• is not always the antagonist
• can be multiple characters

Literary Devices

Literary devices, terms, and elements, definition of foil, difference between foil and antagonist, common examples of foil, significance of foil in literature.

There are examples of foil characters in a large number of works of drama. Authors may use foil characters to show either the inner strengths or weaknesses of their protagonists. Foil characters may also make an opposite choice as the protagonist, which is a way for the author to explore what would have happened if the protagonist had gone down a different path.

Examples of Foil in Literature

Example 1: romeo and mercutio.

MERCUTIO: Romeo, Humors! Madman! Passion! Lover! Appear thou in the likeness of a sigh, Speak but one rhyme and I am satisfied. Cry but “Ay me!” Pronounce but “love” and “dove.”

( Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare)

Example 2: Heathcliff and Edgar Linton

…having knocked gently, young Linton entered, his face brilliant with delight at the unexpected summon she had received. Doubtless Catherine marked the difference between her friends, as one came in and the other went out. The contrast resembled what you see in exchanging a bleak, hilly, coal country for a beautiful fertile valley; and his voice and greeting were as opposite as his aspect. He had a sweet, low manner of speaking, and pronounced his words as you do: that’s less gruff than we talk here, and softer.

Example 3: Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby

Tom Buchanan

He was a sturdy straw-haired man of thirty with a rather hard mouth and a supercilious manner. Two shining arrogant eyes had established dominance over his face and gave him the appearance of always leaning aggressively forward.

He smiled understandingly—much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life.

Example 4: Caleb and Aron

Cal was growing up dark-skinned, dark-haired. He was quick and sure and secret.

Aron drew love from every side. He seemed shy and delicate. His pink-and-white skin, golden hair, and wide-set blue eyes caught attention.

And what was charming in the blond ingenuousness of Aron became suspicious and unpleasant in the dark-faced, slit-eyed Cal.

Example 5: Snowball and Napoleon

Pre-eminent among the pigs were two young boars named Snowball and Napoleon, whom Mr. Jones was breeding up for sale. Napoleon was a large, rather fierce-looking Berkshire boar, the only Berkshire on the farm, not much of a talker, but with a reputation for getting his own way. Snowball was a more vivacious pig than Napoleon, quicker in speech and more inventive, but was not considered to have the same depth of character.  

( Animal Farm by George Orwell)

Test Your Knowledge of Foil

1. Which of the following statements is the best definition of foil as a literary device?  A. A character that works in opposition to the protagonist. B. A character that has opposing characteristics as the protagonist. C. An evil character that has bad intentions.

2. Which of the following statements is true? A. The foil is always a villain. B. The foil is always a character. C. The foil is never the protagonist.

[spoiler title=”Answer to Question #2″]Answer: C is the correct answer. The foil character is not necessarily a villain or antagonist, and there can be foil subplots. However, the term “foil” is never used for at the main character; instead, a foil acts to highlight specific characteristics in the main character.[/spoiler]

3. True or False: there can only be one foil in a work of literature. A. True B. False

[spoiler title=”Answer to Question #3″]Answer: B (False) is the correct answer. There may be many examples of foil pairs in a work of literature, and a protagonist may have more than one foil.[/spoiler]

Literary Foils: Definition and Examples

by Liz Bureman | 8 comments

Since my last post, I've almost finished  Tomcat In Love , and it has been somewhat of an exercise in frustration. This isn't due to the book itself; it's more due to the fact that the narrator is one of the most profoundly annoying protagonists I've ever encountered in fiction. He is a narcissist with a complete lack of self-awareness (at least until the last forty pages), and an unrepentant womanizer. Early on in the novel, we're introduced to a woman who immediately provides a voice of reason, and helps serve as a reader surrogate. Everything that Thomas believes himself to be, Donna firmly states this is not the case, and her protests to his behavior make his ridiculous narcissism stand out even more boldly. She is a perfect foil to Thomas's insanity.

Great foils: Han Solo and Luke Skywalker. Photo by JD Hancock (Creative Commons)

What Is a Foil?

Most of us have heard the word “foil” used in a literary context, and when used to describe a character, it means that that character serves to highlight one or more attributes of another character, often the protagonist, by providing a contrast.

In the Harry Potter series, Draco Malfoy is a foil to Harry Potter. In Daphne du Maurier's  Rebecca , Mrs. Danvers and the memory of Rebecca both serve as foils to the young wife of Maxim de Winter.  Captain Hastings in Agatha Christie' Poirot novels serves as a foil to the Belgian detective; although they are both on the side of good, Hastings is slower to pick up on clues and dangers, which better highlights Poirot's sharp deductive skills.

A Foil is not an Antagonist

Sometimes a foil may be confused with an antagonist, which is a character whose personality not only may differ from the hero's, but whose goals are in direct conflict with the protagonist's. An antagonist is often a foil, and a foil can be an antagonist, but the two are not necessarily indicative of each other.

What is your favorite protagonist relationship?

Spend fifteen minutes writing a scene between a protagonist and a foil as they try to make a mutual decision. They could be determining the best route to your story's MacGuffin, or maybe they're just really hungry and trying to make dinner plans. Post your practice in the comments and check out the work of your fellow writers.

Liz Bureman

Liz Bureman has a more-than-healthy interest in proper grammatical structure, accurate spelling, and the underappreciated semicolon. When she's not diagramming sentences and reading blogs about how terribly written the Twilight series is, she edits for the Write Practice, causes trouble in Denver, and plays guitar very slowly and poorly. You can follow her on Twitter (@epbure), where she tweets more about music of the mid-90s than writing.

slammed my fist on the old wooden table. The rain splashed on the window of the old abandoned building in the Southside of the city the dark clouds formed a tight knit cloak over the sky blocking out all hopes of sun light.

“Zack!” The boy picked up his head and opened his hazel eyes. “What?” “We need to focus!” “I was just taking a quick nap.” He combed back his curly chocolate brown hair back. “Seriously I mean come on!” He yawned as he stretched his arms and legs. “Calm down miss uptight.” “Our lives are at stake and all you want to do is nap!” I brushed back my curly red hair to get out of my green eyes.

I grabbed my red backpack and put it on the table digging around in it till I found it. “Fine I’ll stay awake but this better be quick.” I threw a look his way as he stood up and lazily walked over to the table in one of the old chairs that looked like they were about to fall apart. I spread the maps on the table showing all of London’s underground ways and secret tunnels. Zach started whistling the same three notes over and over again “Row Row Row” I tapped my fingers trying to drown out the annoying sound finally I snapped. “Zack shut up!” He looked at me giving me a cocky grin. “Don’t be like that.” “I want to live unlike you!” Zack gave a sigh as he leaned in closer to look at the maps. “We should go here here and here but avoid there.” He pointed to the spots as I circled them. I would get rid of him if I didn’t need his experience in survival.

Finally I put back the maps and closed the back pack. “Wait what’s this?” He grabbed the letter in my backpack and started to open it. ”

Give it back!” I screamed. “Why?” “Never mind why just give it back!” He held it above me smiling that cocky grin. “Must be pretty important to you.” “No it’s not!” I lied. “I don’t buy it CJ.”

I pushed him against the wall punching him in the face giving him a bloody nose He punched me in the cheek leaving a bruise. We wrestled on the floor leaving blood everywhere. Our enraged screams echoed though the empty room.

“Be quiet.” Zack said. “Never!” “Seriously be quiet.” he laped his hand on my mouth as I made muffled sounds in order to talk. The sound of footsteps walking up the rickety old steps reached our ears sending fear into my heart.

I grabbed Zacks hand and pulled him towards the window. “Stop!” An unknown voice yelled at us. I opened the window that lead to a 0 foot drop to solid ground. I looked at Zack as he stared at the ground his face as pale as a ghost. “Hold on!” I grabbed Zack and jumped out the window as the world swept past me

This was a really good, tense piece of writing. The narrator’s no-nonsense attitude and Zack’s laziness really visibly contrasted each other, and it was easy to see each different personality come through. One thing I would suggest you work more on is punctuation, namely commas. But other than that, this was excellent work. Nice job.

“All I want to do is fit in.”

I’ve said it. It’s all out there, now. I have made excuses for two months—just one time, I just want to try it, I’m curious, I’ve heard so much and just want to experience it for myself… But between all those thoughtless words, the ones I’ve offered in the black of night to girls even more naïve than me, lies the simple truth. I just want acceptance. I can deal with the consequences. I just need to know that my own team sees me the way they see each other. Strong. Cool. Fearless.

“I just—” I tug at the ends of my sleeves, which have rolled. “I see you, and Linds, and—and Ari. And you all are just so nice and such perfect people and at the same time you’ve got these cool little things you do behind the scenes. You go on adventures and get high and have secrets to keep. And I have absolutely nothing to hide. I need an adventure, an experience, you know? Like, I feel like I need to DO something. I just come to school and do my work and go home and practice volleyball but I’m not DOING anything. And all of you are so terribly exciting and do such crazy things and it’s just—I want that. I want to be like that. Do you see?”

“But you can go on adventures and do awesome things without the drinking, G. Look at yourself. You’re one of the smartest f***ing girls in this entire school. And the best player we’ve had come in since Jordan. You are doing things with your life that the rest of us can only dream of doing. Don’t let a stupid drink mess it up. I’ve been in your place, you know. And it’s my biggest regret.”

“That you were smart?”

“That I was stupid. That I let a few stupid girls get in my ear and get me to try it. Because you let yourself try a sip, then more, then drink after drink until you lose track of who you are and where you’re going. You don’t need it, Gia. Honestly.”

“What about Jess?” I ask. “She parties more than anyone. But look at her grades. Her sets, dude, are insane. She’s so good at this sport and her other sports and her work and she’s a good girl, also. And she does all this other stuff but still keeps that up.”

“That’s what she shows you. And the rest of the school. But I’ve known her for longer than you’ve been playing volleyball. She’s screwed up, man. Maybe you don’t see it, but I do. She’s not happy where she is.”

“Well, neither am I. And me and Jess, we aren’t the same person. We need different things in our lives. Okay? And you and me aren’t the same either. I love you more than probably the whole rest of this team, but we have different things going on. You need to see that, now. I’ve gotta give it a chance. I’m going to Sienna’s on Friday. And I’m sorry, but nothing you say will stop me.”

“Maybe it won’t. But, G, if you’re going to do it, I need you to promise me two things.”

“Okay. Shoot.”

“Don’t go too wild. It’s your first party. Don’t make it your last.”

“Jesus Christ, I’m not an idiot. I don’t plan to end up in the hospital anytime soon.”

“Just remember that. And when you need to go home, give me a call. I’ll bring you back to my place so you can sleep it off. Do not—do NOT get in anyone else’s car. Trust me.”

“I hear you. Thanks. Really.” And I give her a hug. But she is still tense as ever. What does she have to worry about? I’m going to be fine.

– ‘Hey, Hasti’.

– ‘You do not exist’.

– ‘So how can I talk if I don’t?’

– ‘You do not exist in my world’.

– ‘But I’m talking to you’.

– ‘No, you just think so. I’m not hearing anything.’

– ‘You want yourself to accept that your ears are not listening to me’.

– ‘I just want me not to respond to you anymore. We got done, you forgot?’

– ‘Done? That’s interesting to me that you don’t know yourself as an emotional person’.

– ‘Because I’m not’.

– ‘This also is a part of it’.

– ‘I have always tried to be sensible, reasonable and sound’.

– ‘You don’t seem pretty successful at it’.

– ‘Why? because I don’t know anyone called ‘You’ in my world?’

– ‘No, because your sensibility, reason and logic are all twisted with emotion’.

– ‘I’m not an emotional person’.

Nice dialog. I totally got the character’s reluctance to acknowledge the other character/emotions. Cool.

This totally has nothing to do with my practice but I just wanted to mention that I really love the idea and usage of foils in lit. I’ve only just learned about them in English this year and this was a nice reminder how cool I think they are. The minor complexities of characters 🙂 good stuff. Thanks for the post!

Jem pulled her hair back tightly and binded them with a thin fiber string. She gave it a tug before letting it go. It would have to do for today, she thought. She’d need to shave the whole thing off sooner or later.

“Come, come.” Shiti-Mama pointed at the steaming bowls near her seat. “We don’t have all day.”

Silently Jem made her way to Shiti-Mama and promptly sat down besides her. No one said anything as they stumbled out of their tents and slurped their soup. “Nolm, Worm and I will go to see the Payer after breakfast. In the meanwhile the rest of you will clean the camp site and move further up hill.”

Everyone nodded. What’s a Payer? Jem wondered.

“Oma,” Milven spoke up. “And what about me?”

“There’s a little town by the stream. Go hunting.” Shiti-Mama turned her attention to her own rapidly cooling soup. From the corner of her eyes she saw Jem fidgeting. “Oh, and take Jemorah with you. Teach her the ropes and all.”

“Why are we going into town?” Jem asked as the two girls made their way through the thick forest.

“Hunting,” came the curt reply.

“Can you at least tell me what?”

Jem frowned. “Do we have money?”

“Sure, check your pocket. Maybe a million Glk. have miraculously appeared in them.”

“Why-” Jem cut off. “You don’t have any money! Then how are you going to pay for the rations!”

Milvan halted, making Jem nearly collide into her.

“Who do you think you are?” Milvan asked turning to glare at Jem. “What? Do you still bear some illusions of novelty and grandeur? You got to play loyal puppy and it’s over.”

Milvan smirked at Jem’s red face. “Princess can’t take the truth? News flash girl, you’re a renegade. They’ve got your face plastered on paper all over and there’s probably not one kid in this realm who couldn’t recognize you. Plus every other hot shot with fancies is after your red head. You know what that means?” She paused, waiting expectantly.

“That means,” she continued. “You shut your mouth and don’t bother me.” Her face lit up with amusement as she leaned in, as if to share a secret.

“Or before you know it…. you’ll be hanging by the rope.”

Anger…no, this was something else. More bland and ugly. This feeling coursed through Jem faster and faster until her eyes blurred. This was resentment. And blame. She wanted to blame the world for throwing this curve ball; she hated not being sure about what was going around her. She had been rendered useless. She wanted to-

“Dung’s heap!” She cursed as her hair started to curve around her. “Stop it!” Hissing, she spat at one tendril as it tried to twine itself around her neck. “Stop, stop it!”

“We shouldn’t be doing this!” Jem persisted. Melvin ignored her, and concentrated on what they need most and what they could survive without.

“Shut your yap.” She picked up one apple and after deeming it clean enough; bit it.

Jem made a face, “You have no idea where that’s been.”

“Here,” Melvin threw her a bag. “Fill this up, and then we leave.”

Jem didn’t have the time to count the money, incase Melvin came back. She quickly fisted a couple of coins and dropped them onto the front desk of the store. Hopefully someone would see it…

– Jem is a character I’ve been babying for a long while. It’s about time she said hi to the world. I know this scene could have been done better, and it didn’t fully portray Jem’s characteristics but it was good practice. Enjoyed the article as always.

FYI the pictures above are both of Han Solo. I think they would have been more indicative of the subject matter had you shown the two characters instead of just one. All in all a great explanation of foils though. Thank you.

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Foil Definition In literature, a foil is a individual that indicates characteristics that are in comparison with the characteristics of another person. The goal is to focus on the developments of the opposite person. The time period foil, though commonly being carried out to a contrasting person, can also be used for any contrast that is drawn to portray a distinction between two things. What we have a look at in literature very often is that a foil is a secondary character who contrasts with the major individual to beautify the importance of the major individual. The etymology of the time period foil testifies the aforementioned assertion as the word is taken from the practice of backing gem stones with foil (tool), so that they shine greater brightly. Examples of Foil in Literature Example #1: Paradise Lost (By John Milton) Milton’s Paradise Lost, Book I, is based at the evaluation of two contrasting characters: God and Satan. Satan, within the whole work, seems as a foil to God. The negative traits of Satan and the nice trends of God are frequently compared, which consequently brings to the surface no longer most effective the assessment between the two characters, but also “justify the methods of God…” We reach a end that it is handiest just for Satan to be expelled from the paradise because of his refusal to offer in to the need of God. Example #2: Wuthering Heights (By Emily Bronte) In Wuthering Heights, Emily Bronte depicts two contrasting settings that are foils to each different. The whole action of the narrative takes location in neighboring houses: Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange. While describing Wuthering Heights in bankruptcy 12, the narrator says: “There was no moon, and everything below lay in misty darkness: not a light gleamed from any house, far or near all had been extinguished long ago: and people at Wuthering Heights had been in no way visible…” The description of Thrushcross Grange, in evaluation to the Wuthering Heights, creates a calm and peaceful atmosphere. “Gimmerton chapel bells were nonetheless ringing; and the full, mellow float of the beck within the valley got here soothingly at the ear. It become a sweet replacement for the but absent murmur of the summer time foliage, which drowned that music approximately the Grange when the trees have been in leaf.” The foils in these settings also help within the development of the foils within the characters, as the human beings from Wuthering Heights are unsophisticated, and are foils to the ones from Thrushcross Grange, who have a cultured disposition. Example #3: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (By Robert Louis Stevenson) In his novel Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Robert Louis Stevenson explores the theme of doppelganger in which Hyde isn't always only an evil double of the honorable Dr. Jekyll, but additionally qualifies as his foil. Dr. Jekyll creates Hyde through a series of medical experiments, which will show his statement: “Man isn't genuinely one, but really two.” He way that the human soul is a aggregate of evil and good. In different words, every man’s foil exists in himself. Hyde is the manifestation of the evil that existed in in any other case honorable Dr. Jekyll. Being a decent Victorian gentleman, Jekyll can by no means satisfy his evil desires. Therefore, he separates his “evil-self,” giving him a separate identity, and consequently invents his own foil. Example #4: Julius Caesar (By William Shakespeare) Foil examples also are discovered in plays. We note in William Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar a twofold foil. Cassius is a foil to Brutus, and Brutus is a foil to Antony. Both Cassius and Brutus conspire to kill Caesar, but Cassius is greater at risk of treachery than Brutus is, and for that reason easily offers in to his evil ambition. Brutus, on the other hand, hesitates to join the plot without cautious analysis of the entire scenario. Cassius even is going to the quantity that he does no longer turn away from writing phony letters to persuade Brutus to sign up for the plot. Brutus, in comparison, is bent on counting on his own reason, and his awareness of his dignified responsibilities as a Roman, to do the inevitable. Moreover, Brutus is a foil to Antony because Brutus’s honesty and ease are in clear evaluation to Antony’s qualities of deception and over-ambition. Function of Foil In fiction, a foil is important in the improvement of the story’s characters. The evaluation of the contrasting traits of the characters enables the readers to not most effective apprehend their personalities, however additionally to recognise the importance of their roles in a work of literature.

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Foil Definition

In literature, a foil is a character that shows qualities that are in contrast with the qualities of another character . The objective is to highlight the traits of the other character . The term foil , though generally being applied to a contrasting character , may also be used for any comparison that is drawn to portray a difference between two things.

What we observe in literature very often is that a foil is a secondary character who contrasts with the major character to enhance the importance of the major character . The etymology of the term foil testifies the aforementioned assertion as the word is taken from the practice of backing gems with foil (tool), so that they shine more brightly.

Examples of Foil in Literature

Example #1: paradise lost (by john milton).

Milton’s Paradise Lost , Book I, is based on the comparison of two contrasting characters: God and Satan. Satan, in the entire work, appears as a foil to God. The negative traits of Satan and the positive traits of God are frequently compared, which consequently brings to the surface not only the contrast between the two characters, but also “justify the ways of God…” We reach a conclusion that it is only just for Satan to be expelled from the paradise because of his refusal to give in to the will of God.

Example #2: Wuthering Heights (By Emily Bronte)

In Wuthering Heights , Emily Bronte depicts two contrasting settings that are foils to each other. The entire action of the narrative takes place in two neighboring houses: Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange . While describing Wuthering Heights in chapter 12, the narrator says:

“There was no moon, and everything beneath lay in misty darkness: not a light gleamed from any house, far or near all had been extinguished long ago: and those at Wuthering Heights were never visible…”

The description of Thrushcross Grange , in contrast to the Wuthering Heights , creates a calm and peaceful atmosphere .

“Gimmerton chapel bells were still ringing; and the full, mellow flow of the beck in the valley came soothingly on the ear. It was a sweet substitute for the yet absent murmur of the summer foliage, which drowned that music about the Grange when the trees were in leaf.”

The foils in these settings also help in the development of the foils in the characters, as the people from Wuthering Heights are unsophisticated, and are foils to those from Thrushcross Grange , who have a refined disposition.

Example #3: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (By Robert Louis Stevenson)

In his novel Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde , Robert Louis Stevenson explores the theme of doppelganger in which Hyde is not only an evil double of the honorable Dr. Jekyll, but also qualifies as his foil. Dr. Jekyll creates Hyde through a series of scientific experiments, in order to prove his statement:

“Man is not truly one, but truly two.”

He means that the human soul is a mixture of evil and good. In other words, every man’s foil exists in himself. Hyde is the manifestation of the evil that existed in otherwise honorable Dr. Jekyll. Being a respectable Victorian gentleman, Jekyll can never fulfill his evil desires. Therefore, he separates his “evil-self,” giving him a separate identity, and thus invents his own foil.

Example #4: Julius Caesar (By William Shakespeare)

Foil examples are also found in plays. We notice in William Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar a twofold foil. Cassius is a foil to Brutus, and Brutus is a foil to Antony. Both Cassius and Brutus conspire to kill Caesar, but Cassius is more prone to treachery than Brutus is, and thus easily gives in to his evil ambition.

Brutus, on the other hand, hesitates to join the plot without careful analysis of the whole scenario. Cassius even goes to the extent that he does not shy away from writing phony letters to convince Brutus to join the plot . Brutus, in contrast , is bent on relying on his own reason, and his awareness of his dignified obligations as a Roman, to do the inevitable. Moreover, Brutus is a foil to Antony because Brutus’s honesty and simplicity are in clear contrast to Antony’s qualities of deception and over-ambition.

Function of Foil

In fiction , a foil is important in the development of the story’s characters. The comparison of the contrasting traits of the characters helps the readers to not only understand their personalities, but also to comprehend the importance of their roles in a work of literature.

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• Literary Devices - Foil

foil , in literature , a character who is presented as a contrast to a second character so as to point to or show to advantage some aspect of the second character. An obvious example is the character of Dr. Watson in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle ’s Sherlock Holmes stories. Watson is a perfect foil for Holmes because his relative obtuseness makes Holmes’s deductions seem more brilliant.

• Scriptwriting

What is a Foil Character — Definition, Examples in Lit. & Film

• Protagonist
• Tragic Hero
• Foil Character
• Common Character Types
• Types of Villains
• Femme Fatale
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W hat is a foil character? Is it a character who wears tin-foil on their head? Wait no, that’s Joaquin Phoenix in Signs . Foil characters exist to expose something in the main character of a story. You may have heard the term in reference to the works of William Shakespeare, but he’s not the only writer who uses them. We’re going to show you some examples of foil characters from literature, film, and television. By the end, you’ll know how to recognize foils from a mile away and perhaps hatch an idea for your own foil character.

Watch: What is a Foil Character & Why Writers Use Them

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Foil Literary Definition

What’s a foil in literature.

The foil literary definition is a little bit different than the general definition. So, what’s a foil in literature?

Foils are used in literature to show conflict between the protagonist and an external factor of the story. It’s true that the protagonist of a story is driven by conflict with the antagonist , but the antagonist is not usually a foil. 

An antagonist and a foil

An easy way to think about the difference between a foil and an antagonist is this:

• A foil seeks to expose something essential about the protagonist.
• An antagonist seeks to oppose something essential in the protagonist.

Of course, one character can do both of these things, like Killmonger in Black Panther .

CHARACTER FOIL DEFINITION

What is a foil character.

A foil character is a fictional character that serves to expose something intrinsic in another character. Oftentimes, the thing that is exposed is a character folly, like cowardice or greed. 

Foil Character Examples:

• God and Satan ( Paradise Lost )
• Sherlock and Watson ( Sherlock Holmes )
• Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy ( Harry Potter )

Dramatic Foil Character Definition

What’s a foil character used for.

William Shakespeare is widely credited with proliferating the use of foil characters. And most of his plays, histories, tragedies, and comedies included, revolve around specific tenets of character conflict.

Let’s take a look at the 1953 adaptation of Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar . Aside from being one of Marlon Brando’s best movies , there’s a great example of how to use a character foil in Julius Caesar . As you’re watching the clip, keep in mind that Mark Antony (Brando) is meant to foil Brutus, the man who killed the titular Caesar.

A Foil Character Definition   •  Julius Caesar Clip

What is Antony doing in this scene? I’d say that he’s exposing Brutus’ dishonorable ways. How does he do it? Through the use of juxtaposition and dramatic irony . As a result, we see how Antony foils Brutus.

Romeo and Juliet is another one of Shakespeare’s plays that’s full of foil characters. The foil characters in Romeo and Juliet are some of the most famous of all time. We’re going to look at a clip from the 1996 film version of Romeo and Juliet , but first let’s remind ourselves of the story’s set-up. Romeo and Mercutio have found themselves in a precarious situation, warring with the antagonistic Tybalt.

Mercutio, one of the foil characters in Romeo and Juliet

When analyzing character foils, consider taking a story beat and breaking it into this equation: problem (x) + characters (y1 &y2) = resolution (z). Now let’s plug in for those variables.

• X: The problem in this scene is that Tybalt wants to kill Romeo.
• Y1: Romeo wants peace.
• Y2: Mercutio wants to protect Romeo.

What’s the resolution (z) of the foil characters in Romeo and Juliet ? Mercutio is killed by Tybalt, but more subtextually , one could argue that he’s killed by Romeo’s inaction. The main takeaway of the scene is that Mercutio’s boldness juxtaposes Romeo’s cowardice -- which ultimately exposes a character folly in Romeo.

Define Foil Character in TV

Structuring a show around a foil.

The BBC series Sherlock is one of the best adaptations of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s original stories. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson rely on one another to survive — but they also foil each other. Let’s think about how they’re different.

Sherlock and Watson

• Sherlock is neurotic, insensitive, and selfish.
• Watson is pragmatic, empathetic, and selfless.

Despite their differences, Sherlock and Watson make a great crime-solving pair. 

One way to foil characters is through the use of clever word-play. Perhaps no character is a better wordsmith than Sherlock Holmes — watching him and Watson verbally spar commands our attention. Sherlock and Watson may be opposites but they serve to expose each other's strengths.

Foil character examples in Disney movies

Foil characters in disney movies.

Disney movies, and particularly Disney animated movies, excel at utilizing character tropes while still feeling fresh and compelling. This is the case with Disney foils.

Think of  Beauty and the Beast . No, the foils aren’t the two titular characters, but instead the Beast and Gaston. The Beast isn’t conventionally attractive, while Gaston, with his chiseled jaw and muscular frame, is.

Beautiful Gaston

But Gaston is a foil in more ways than that. He may be a hunk, but he’s also arrogant and insensitive. This highlights Beast’s qualities to the contrary: he’s abundantly sensitive, and for much of the movie is plagued with self-doubt. This use of a foil is so successful that Disney pretty much used the exact same dynamic in Tarzan .

In Frozen , Elsa’s foil is her sister, Anna. Elsa is fearful and emotionally distant, while Anna is more sure of herself, and seeks connection with her sibling. This foil relationship is crucial to both characters’ arc and the plotline as a whole.

Toy Story features an iconic foil relationship. Buzz is everything Woody isn’t: new, shiny, and delusional. Woody’s more cautious nature, and his resistance to change, directly contrasts with Buzz’s taste for excitement. It also informs the theme of the film.

Movie Foil Examples

Atypical foil character examples.

Not every foil has to be like our previous examples. Take Clarice and Hannibal Lecter from The Silence of the Lambs for example. Their relationship has inspired countless interpretations, but most critics agree that Clarice and Lecter are each other's foil.

We imported the The Silence of the Lambs  script into StudioBinder’s screenwriting software to take a closer look at their relationship. Pay special attention to the ways in which Lecter prods Clarice into exposing her own secrets. Follow the image link to read the entire scene — it's still one of the most emotional and haunting bits of screenwriting.

Foil Character Examples in Movies  •   Read The Silence of the Lambs

It’s clear that the killing of the lambs is a metaphor for the loss of innocence. But why does writer Ted Tally reveal this crucial information in this way? I’d say that it’s entirely intentional. Tally juxtaposes the two characters through simple, unspoken characterization . In turn, this juxtaposition creates a foil.

What is a foil in a story used for?

So what is a foil character used for? Foil characters are used by writers to expose qualities of other characters. Think of the Harry Potter foil character Draco Malfoy. He shows us just how kind and caring Harry is by being… the opposite.

Harry Potter foil character

As Draco shows us throughout the entirety of the Potter franchise, foils revolve around the protagonist of a story. Draco constantly represents the path not taken for Harry.

By better understanding how foils are used by writers, we’re more equipped to recognize them in literature, theater, film and television.

How writers use juxtaposition

Juxtaposition is one of the structural building blocks of writing foil characters — but what is it exactly? In this next post, we define juxtaposition by breaking down examples from Ex Machina , Drive , The Godfather and more. By the end, you’ll see character conflict in a whole new light!

Up Next: Juxtaposition Examples →

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Foils in Literature: Exploring the Role of Contrast in Fiction

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

Foils are an important part of literature, providing a way for authors to create contrast between characters and storylines. In literature, a foil is a character who contrasts with another character, typically the protagonist, in order to highlight certain qualities of the other character. Foils can be used to explore themes, develop characters, and add depth to a story. In this article, we will explore the role of foils in literature, looking at examples from both classic and modern works.

Exploring the Role of Foils in Literature

Before diving into examples of foils in literature, it’s important to understand what a foil is and how it is used. A foil is a character who serves as a contrast to another character, typically the protagonist. This contrast can be used to highlight certain qualities of the other character, allowing the author to explore themes or provide insight into the motivations of the protagonist.

Foils can be used to create contrast between characters in several ways. The most common way is by having one character serve as a direct opposite of the other, creating a stark contrast between the two. For example, a protagonist who is brave and courageous may be contrasted with a timid and cowardly foil. This contrast can be used to emphasize the courage of the protagonist or to explore the concept of bravery in general.

Another way foils are used to create contrast is by having characters with similar qualities, but different approaches. For example, two characters may have the same goal, but their methods for achieving it could be drastically different. By comparing and contrasting the two characters, the author can explore the nuances of a particular theme or idea.

Finally, foils can also be used to create contrast between characters and the overall plot. In this case, the foil may not be a character, but rather a force that counteracts the protagonist and creates tension and conflict. For example, a protagonist may be trying to achieve a goal, while an opposing force is actively trying to prevent them from doing so.

An Overview of Foils in Fiction

Now that we’ve discussed what a foil is and how it can be used to create contrast, let’s take a look at some of the most common types of foils used in fiction. One of the most common types of foils is the “mirror foil,” which is a character who has many similarities to the protagonist, but is still distinct enough to create contrast. This type of foil is often used to show the protagonist in a new light or to explore different aspects of their personality.

Another type of foil is the “comic foil,” which is a character who serves as a source of comic relief. These characters are often used to provide a lighter side to the story and to provide contrast to more serious characters and situations. Finally, there is the “antithetical foil,” which is a character who directly opposes the protagonist in terms of beliefs, values, and goals.

In addition to these types of foils, there are also several common uses for foils in fiction. One of the most common uses is to explore the relationship between characters. By contrasting two characters, the author can shed light on the dynamic between them and explore how they interact with each other.

Foils can also be used to examine character arcs and motivations. By contrasting characters, the author can demonstrate how characters change over time and why they make certain decisions. This can be used to add complexity to a character and to explore the consequences of their actions.

Finally, foils can be used to explore the effect of characters on the overall plot. By introducing a foil, the author can create tension and conflict, which can lead to interesting plot developments and unexpected twists.

How Authors Use Foils to Enhance Character Development

By now, it should be clear that foils are an important tool for authors when it comes to developing characters. Foils can be used to create contrast between characters, allowing the author to explore the nuances of a character’s personality and motivations. But how exactly do authors use foils to enhance character development?

One way authors use foils to enhance character development is by analyzing the relationship between characters. By creating a contrast between characters, the author can explore how they interact with each other and the effects of their interactions. This can be used to build relationships between characters, as well as to show how characters evolve over time.

The Power of Contrast: Analyzing Foils in Literature

Now that we’ve discussed how foils can be used to enhance character development, let’s take a look at how authors use contrast to explore themes and add depth to a story. One way authors use contrast is by comparing and contrasting characters. By creating a contrast between characters, the author can explore the differences between them and the implications of those differences.

Authors can also use contrast to explore the use of irony and foreshadowing. By creating a contrast between characters, the author can hint at future plot developments or introduce elements of surprise and suspense. This can be used to add depth to a story and keep readers engaged.

Finally, authors can use contrast to explore the use of metaphor and symbolism. By creating a contrast between characters, the author can explore the meaning of symbols and metaphors, allowing them to add layers of complexity to their stories.

Analyzing Literary Foils in Classic Novels

To gain a better understanding of how foils are used in literature, let’s take a look at some examples from classic novels. One of the most famous examples of a foil is found in Charlotte Bronte’s novel Jane Eyre. In this novel, the protagonist Jane is contrasted with her cousin St. John Rivers. St. John is a religious and moral man, while Jane is more independent and rebellious. This contrast is used to explore the themes of morality and freedom.

Another example of a foil can be found in Charles Dickens’ novel Great Expectations. In this novel, the protagonist Pip is contrasted with his friend Herbert Pocket. Herbert is kind and generous, while Pip is selfish and insecure. This contrast is used to explore the themes of friendship and loyalty.

Finally, an example of a foil can be found in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby. In this novel, the protagonist Jay Gatsby is contrasted with his rival Tom Buchanan. Tom is wealthy and arrogant, while Gatsby is humble and idealistic. This contrast is used to explore the themes of wealth and ambition.

Uncovering the Function of Foils in Modern Writing

Now that we’ve looked at examples of foils in classic literature, let’s take a look at how modern authors use foils in their writing. One example of a foil can be found in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. In this series, the protagonist Harry is contrasted with his nemesis Draco Malfoy. Draco is privileged and arrogant, while Harry is humble and determined. This contrast is used to explore the themes of good vs evil.

Another example of a foil can be found in Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games. In this novel, the protagonist Katniss is contrasted with her rival Peeta Mellark. Peeta is kind and gentle, while Katniss is strong and independent. This contrast is used to explore the themes of strength and compassion.

Finally, an example of a foil can be found in Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series. In this series, the protagonist Bella Swan is contrasted with her love interest Edward Cullen. Edward is mysterious and aloof, while Bella is warm and passionate. This contrast is used to explore the themes of love and mystery.

These examples demonstrate how modern authors use foils to explore themes and add depth to their stories. By creating a contrast between characters, authors can create tension and conflict, adding complexity to their stories and engaging readers.

Foils are an important tool for authors when it comes to creating compelling characters and storylines. By creating a contrast between characters, authors can explore themes, develop characters, and add depth to a story. From examining classic works to exploring modern examples, this article has explored the role of foils in literature and how authors use them to enhance character development.

If you’d like to learn more about foils in literature, there are plenty of resources available. You can read classic works and analyze how authors use foils to explore themes and add complexity to their stories. You can also explore modern writing and examine how contemporary authors use foils to engage readers and create compelling characters and storylines.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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In Act 1, Scene 1, when Lear asks Regan, Goneril, and Cordelia to profess their love to him in a bid for a share of his kingdom, he pits them directly against each other. It follows that the audience would compare each coming declaration of love with the others, and from this moment onwards, the two deceitful daughters, Regan and Goneril, function as foils for their loyal sister Cordelia. The differences between the daughters’ declarations, excerpted below, are quite stark:

Goneril: Sir, do love you more than word can wield the matter, Dearer than eyesight, space, and liberty, Beyond what can be valued, rich or rare, No less than life, with grace, health, beauty, honor, As much as child e'er loved or father found; A love that makes breath poor and speech unable. Cite this Quote

Goneril’s declaration rests on the most dramatic series of statements possible, as she exits the bounds of reason in an effort to insist on her devotion to her father. Regan builds on this approach, saying:

Regan: I am made of that self mettle as my sister, And prize me at her worth. In my true heart, I find she names my very deed of love; Only she comes too short, that I profess Myself an enemy to all other joys, Which the most precious square of sense possesses[...]. Cite this Quote

Regan essentially tries to one-up Goneril’s over-the-top proclamation, offering a sweeping rejection of all the joys Goneril omitted in favor of her love. Cordelia, on the other hand, takes a different approach:

Cordelia: Unhappy that I am, I cannot heave My heart into my mouth. I love your majesty According to my bond, no more nor less. Cite this Quote

At first listen, Cordelia’s speech strikes the audience as particularly plain in comparison to those of her sisters. Indeed, it is this very simplicity that draws Lear’s ire and leads to his banishment of his daughter. But Cordelia's plainness of speech underscores her genuine care and affection for her father, while Regan and Goneril have merely overcompensated for their coming treachery by lavishing their father with words of love.

By the end of the play, it is clear that Cordelia alone cares for her father. When Edmund imprisons them both in Act 5, Scene 3, Cordelia expresses her forgiveness for Lear’s cruelty:

We are not the first Who with best meaning have incurred the worst. For thee, oppressèd King, I am cast down. Myself could else outfrown false Fortune’s frown. Cite this Quote

When Lear pits Cordelia against Regan and Goneril in the beginning of the play, he establishes that the characters may function as foils for each other. Through Cordelia’s consistent generosity towards her father, even as he falls from grace and faces betrayal after betrayal from his daughters and former court, the stark differences between Cordelia and her sisters emerge.

Although they are both royal servants of King Lear, Kent and Oswald have decidedly different dispositions toward their master. Over the course of the play, the two servants come to embody different styles of service and ultimately act as foils to each other. This is especially evident in their dramatic confrontation in Act 2, Scene 2, which sees Kent—in disguise as Caius and unwilling to abandon his king—admonishing Oswald for his selfishness and moral abandon:

Oswald: What do you know about me then? Kent: A knave, a rascal, an eater of broken meats; a base, proud, shallow, beggarly, three-suited, hundred-pound, filthy, worsted-stocking knave; a lily-livered, action-taking knave; a whoreson, glass-gazing, super-serviceable finical rogue; one-trunk-inheriting slave; one that wouldst be a bawd in way of good service; and art nothing but the composition of a knave, beggar, coward, pander, and the son and heir of a mongrel bitch, one whom I will beat into clamorous whining if thou denies the least syllable of thy addition. Cite this Quote

Kent's strong words in this passage draw a clear line between him and Oswald, making it obvious that they're at odds with one another.

Furthermore, while Kent’s dogged loyalty persists even as Lear banishes him from the kingdom, Oswald’s fealty is not nearly as steadfast. In Act 1, Scene 3, Goneril conscripts Oswald in her plans against her father, and for the rest of the play he is a part of the increasingly depraved maneuvers against Lear and the kingdom. Coming upon a blinded Gloucester in Act 4, Scene 6, Oswald reveals the depths of his depravity:

A proclaimed prize! Most happy! That eyeless head of thine was first framed flesh To raise my fortunes. Thou old unhappy traitor, Briefly thyself remember. The sword is out That must destroy thee. Cite this Quote

Oswald is concerned only with his own enrichment and advancement, even if this means he must engage in wanton murder. Where Kent serves Lear without a thought for himself, Oswald serves himself without much of a thought for everybody. By pitting Kent and Oswald against each other early in the play, Shakespeare establishes the two servants as foils that, through their conflict with each other and within the kingdom, emphasize the disparity between their styles of service and visions of their duty. 

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Definition of foil

 (Entry 1 of 5)

transitive verb

Definition of foil  (Entry 2 of 5)

Definition of foil  (Entry 3 of 5)

Definition of foil  (Entry 4 of 5)

Definition of foil  (Entry 5 of 5)

frustrate , thwart , foil , baffle , balk mean to check or defeat another's plan or block achievement of a goal.

frustrate implies making vain or ineffectual all efforts however vigorous or persistent.

thwart suggests frustration or checking by crossing or opposing.

foil implies checking or defeating so as to discourage further effort.

baffle implies frustration by confusing or puzzling.

balk suggests the interposing of obstacles or hindrances.

Examples of foil in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'foil.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English foilen "to trample, tread upon, mortify (the flesh), oppress," alteration of fullen "to full (cloth), trample down, oppress," perhaps by analogy with loanwords from French with palatal l that result in variants with -oi- and -u-, as coilen, cullen "to select for quality, pick out, cull entry 1 " — more at full entry 5

Middle English, leaf, from Anglo-French fuille, foille (from Latin folia , plural of folium ) & fuil , from Latin folium — more at blade

origin unknown

derivative of foil entry 1

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing foil

• aluminum foil
• silver foil

Dictionary Entries Near foil

Cite this entry.

“Foil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foil. Accessed 13 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of foil.

 (Entry 1 of 3)

Kids Definition of foil  (Entry 2 of 3)

Kids Definition of foil  (Entry 3 of 3)

Middle English foilen "to trample underfoot," from early French fuller, fouler "to shrink and thicken (cloth), trample underfoot," from Latin fullare "to shrink and thicken (cloth)"

Middle English foil "leaf," from early French fuille, foille (same meaning), derived from Latin folium "leaf" — related to foliage

Medical Definition

Medical definition of foil, more from merriam-webster on foil.

Nglish: Translation of foil for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of foil for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about foil

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Figurative Language

Figurative language definition, types of figurative language, short examples of figurative language, examples of figurative language from literature, example #1: the base stealer (by robert francis).

Poised between going on and back, pulled Both ways taut like a tight-rope walker, Now bouncing tiptoe like a dropped ball, Or a kid skipping rope, come on, come on! … Taunts them, hovers like an ecstatic bird, He’s only flirting, crowd him, crowd him,

Example #2: I Know Why the Cage Bird Sings (By Maya Angelou)

But a BIRD that stalks down his narrow cage Can seldom see through his bars of rage His wings are clipped and his feet are tied The caged bird sings with a fearful trill … And his tune is heard on the distant hill for The caged bird sings of freedom.

Example #3: She Sweeps with Many-Colored Brooms (By Emily Dickinson)

Personification.

She sweeps with many-colored Brooms And leaves the Shreds behind Oh Housewife in the Evening West Come back, and dust the Pond!

Example #4: The Raven (By Edgar Allen Poe)

Alliteration.

O nce upon a midnight dreary w hile I pondered w eak and w eary ; r are and r adiant maiden; And the s ilken s ad uncertain rustling of each purple curtain … D eep into that d arkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing, D oubting, d reaming d reams no mortal ever d ared to d ream before.

Example #5: The Rime of the Ancient Mariner (By Samuel Taylor Coleridge)

Ah ! well a-day ! what evil looks Had I from old and young ! Instead of the cross , the Albatross About my neck was hung.

Example #6: The Bluest Eyes (By Toni Morrison)

Personification, consonance, and simile.

She ran down the street, the green knee socks making her legs look like wild dandelion of stems that had somehow lost their heads. The weight of her remark stunned us.

Example #7: The Week of Diana (By Maya Angelou)

Metaphor, consonance, personification.

“The dark lantern of world sadness has cast its shadow upon the land. We stumble into our misery on leaden feet.”

Example #8: The Negro Speaks of River (By Langston Hughes)

Consonance, simile.

“I’ve known rivers: I’ve known rivers ancient as the world and older than the flow of human blood in human veins. My soul has grown deep like the rivers.”

Example #9: Musée des Beaux Arts (By W. H. Auden)

Personification, consonance.

That even the dreadful martyrdom must run its course Anyhow in a corner, some untidy spot Where the dogs go on with their doggy W. H. Auden life and the torturer’s horse Scratches its innocent behind on a tree.

Function of Figurative Language

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foil verb 1

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Earlier version

• foil, v.¹ in OED Second Edition (1989)

In other dictionaries

• foilen, v.(2) in Middle English Dictionary

What does the verb foil mean?

There are ten meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb foil , five of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

foil has developed meanings and uses in subjects including

Entry status

OED is undergoing a continuous programme of revision to modernize and improve definitions. This entry has not yet been fully revised.

How common is the verb foil ?

How is the verb foil pronounced?

British english, u.s. english, where does the verb foil come from.

Earliest known use

Middle English

The earliest known use of the verb foil is in the Middle English period (1150—1500).

OED's earliest evidence for foil is from around 1330, in Arthour and Merlin .

foil is a borrowing from French .

Etymons: French fuler .

Nearby entries

• FOI, n. 1953–
• FOIA, n. 1968–
• foible, adj. & n. a1648–
• foiblesse, n. 1685–
• foie gras, n. 1818–
• foil, n.¹ ?c1390–
• foil, n.² c1478–
• foil, n.³ 1565
• foil, n.⁴ 1575–
• foil, n.⁵ 1594–
• foil, v.¹ c1330–
• foil, v.² 1600–
• foil, v.³ 1669
• foil, v.⁴ 1611–
• foilable, adj. 1611–
• foil-alum, n. 1453–
• foil-borne, adj. 1961–
• foiled, adj. a1680–
• foiled, adj. 1607–
• foiler, n. 1700–
• foiler, n. 1617–

Meaning & use

Pinogras he feld of hors, And foiled al his cursed cors.

Mony gentil cors, Was y- foiled undur fet of hors.

They shal foyle and threste all the dampned togyders.

But the third [man] the Beare tooke and ouerthrew, and foiled vnder hir feete.

King Richard..caused the ensignes of Leopold..to be puld downe, and foiled vnderfoot.

A synner..enterithe in to holy chirche, and foylithe the comaundementes of god.

Worshyp in armes may neuer be foyled .

In veyn þu foilist þi flesch wiþ abstinens.

• overtread Old English– transitive . To tread over; to trample under foot. Also figurative : to crush, oppress, subdue. Now chiefly poetic .
• tread Old English–1712 transitive . To step or walk with pressure on (something) esp. so as to crush, beat down, injure, or destroy it; to trample. Obsolete (except as…
• tread Old English– intransitive . To trample on or upon . Also figurative .
• to tread down, under foot, in the mire, to the ground, to pieces c1175– transitive . With adverbial complement, as to tread down, under foot, in the mire, to the ground, to pieces , etc.; to tread to death , to kill by…
• defoul c1290–1528 transitive . To trample under foot; tread down.
• foil c1330–1603 transitive . To tread under foot, trample down.
• to-tread a1382–1535 transitive . To trample down, trample upon.
• foul a1400–1643 transitive . To trample (something); to tread (something) down. Also figurative .
• fulyie 1488–1739 transitive . To trample on; to injure, destroy; to defeat, overcome. Cf. foil , v.¹
• overgo 1488 transitive . To tread upon. Cf. overgang , v. 2. Obsolete . rare .
• trample 1530– transitive . To tread heavily and (esp.) injuriously upon; to crush, break down, or destroy by heavy treading; also to trample down , to trample unde …
• tramp 1533– transitive . To press or compress by treading; to tread or trample upon.
• conculcate 1570–1708 transitive . To tread under foot, trample upon.
• trample 1577– intransitive with on , upon , over . literal . To tread repeatedly upon with heavy or crushing steps. Also in indirect passive.
• overtrample 1589– transitive . To trample over or upon; to tread down. Also figurative .
• tramp 1596– intransitive . To tread heavily or with force ( on or upon something); to stamp ( upon ): = trample , v. 3 to tramp on a person's toes ( figurative ), to…
• inculcate 1598–1657 To tread upon, trample, press with the feet.
• strample a1610– transitive . = stramp , v. 2.
• calcate 1623–57 transitive . To trample or stamp under the heel.
• scrunch 1861– To crush, tread crushingly upon; also, to squeeze into small compass; = crunch , v. 2.

Soake not thy Land too much, that Cattell treading, or Grazing upon it, foyle it not.

Their [Doggs'] scent no North-east winde could e're deceave..nor Flocks that foyle the Ground.

A..dog having foil'd himself..with everything he meets.

In the same Round Persisting still, she'll foil the beaten Track.

If you suffer all your hounds to hunt on the line of him, they will foil the ground.

Foil , to trample, as meadow grass is said to be foiled when trampled or trodden down by hares.

Foil ,..the scent, or the ground, are said to be foiled when other deer than the hunted one have crossed the scent.

Foil ,..a deer is said to foil when he retraces his steps over the same track.

In Town,..I..put up such a Variety of odd Creatures in both Sexes that they foil the Scent of one another.

• foil 1649– Of animals: To trample or tread down; to tread into mud; esp. in Hunting , to run over or cross (the ground, scent, or track) with the effect of…
• to beat up To tread up by much trampling (cf. I.3).

Þis werld, my fleche, þe warlau als, þat folus [ Göttingen MS. fylus; c 1460 Laud MS. foylyn] me wit fonding fals, To do me fal in filthes fele.

• heavy Old English–1581 To weigh down; to burden; to oppress, grieve, distress.
• narrow Old English– transitive . To make narrower; to reduce the breadth of. In early use occasionally figurative or in figurative context: †to constrict, constrain…
• overlay Old English–1770 transitive . To overwhelm, overpower, crush by force (a person, military force, etc.); to press heavily upon, oppress. Obsolete .
• overseam Old English–1200 transitive . To overload, oppress.
• twinge a1300 transitive . To oppress, afflict, persecute.
• to weigh down a1340– transitive . to weigh down : to draw, force, or bend down by pressure of weight; figurative to depress, oppress, lie heavy on. Similarly, to weigh ba …
• grieve 1340–84 transitive . To press heavily upon, as a weight; to burden. Only in passive . Obsolete .
• besit 1377–90 To sit upon; to lie heavy upon; to weigh upon.
• oppress c1384– transitive . Of grief, sleep, hunger, etc.: to affect with a feeling of pressure, constraint, or distress; to afflict; to (mentally) overwhelm or…
• foil a1400 To press hard upon, oppress. Obsolete . rare .
• thring a1400–1871 transitive . To oppress, harass, distress, afflict; to repress. Obsolete .
• empress c1400– transitive and intransitive = impress , v.¹ (in various senses).
• enpress c1400 transitive . To press hard upon; to oppress. Also absol.
• ask a1425 transitive . Probably: to pursue, sue, prosecute (a debtor). Cf. asking , n. 5, 6, asker , n.¹ 2. Obsolete .
• press ?a1425–1793 transitive . Of a tyrant, adverse circumstances, etc.: to oppress; to crush, reduce to distress or misery; to load or burden with impositions or…
• peise a1450– transitive . To add a weight to; to load, burden; ( figurative ) to weigh down , to oppress. Also (in quot. 1573 –4): to provide with weights. Now rare …
• strait a1464–1614 To press hardly upon.
• constrain a1500–1859 To press hard upon, straiten, reduce to straits; to oppress, afflict, distress. Obsolete .
• overhale 1531–1823 transitive . To harry, harass, molest, oppress. See hale , v.¹ 5.
• to grate on or upon 1532–1706 intransitive . to grate on or upon . To oppress or harass with exactions or importunities; to make burdensome demands upon. Obsolete .
• wrack 1562– To wreck (a vessel, mariners, etc.); to ruin or cast ashore by shipwreck. Chiefly passive and in figurative context.
• surcharge 1592– In non-physical senses: To weigh down, overburden; to bear heavily upon.
• to lie heavy upon c1595–1676 In various idiomatic uses (with prepositions, etc.), expressive of steady and continuous action. (Cf… to lie heavy upon : to oppress, harass. (Cf…
• to weigh back, on one side, to the earth 1595 transitive . to weigh down : to draw, force, or bend down by pressure of weight; figurative to depress, oppress, lie heavy on. Similarly, to weigh ba …
• to sit on —— 1607– intransitive . Of care, age, guilt, etc.: to press or weigh on (a person, a person’s heart, etc.), usually in a specified way.
• to sit upon —— 1607– intransitive . Of care, age, guilt, etc.: to press or weigh upon (a person, a person's mind, etc.), usually in a specified way; = to sit on —— 5 at…
• gall 1614– figurative . To vex, harass, oppress. (Chiefly said of a metaphorical ‘yoke’, ‘fetters’, or ‘harness’.)
• bear 1645– intransitive . With on or upon , and adverbs such as hard , heavily , grievously as complement. To affect a person or thing adversely.
• weight 1647–1728 transitive . To oppress (the mind); also passive , to be oppressed in mind or spirit. Scottish . Obsolete .
• obsess 1648 transitive . Originally: to beset or harass (a person, the mind) in the manner of a besieging army or evil spirit; (now) spec. to fill the mind of…
• aggrieve 1670 transitive . To bring grief or trouble to, to grieve, distress; to oppress, treat unfairly. Frequently in passive : to be injuriously affected, to…
• swinge 1681 To bear heavily upon. Obsolete . rare .
• lean 1736– To press upon ; to lay emphasis upon .
• gravitate 1754 transitive . To weigh down, oppress. Obsolete .
• weigh 1794– intransitive with on or upon . Of a thought, feeling, circumstance: To lie heavy on, depress (a person, his or her spirits, etc.). Also in indirect…

If thei lacke actiuitie, euery creature be he neuer so base of birthe, shall foyle and ouerthrowe theim.

The Wrastler That did but lately foile the synowie Charles.

To chase away and foyle all passionate perturbations of the minde.

I strive..but sometimes I am foyled , and go halting out of the field.

Leader of those Armies bright, Which but th' Omnipotent none could have foyld .

The Groom..watches with a trip his Foe to foil .

Not fiercer woes thy fortitude cou'd foil .

You have foiled him..at his own weapon.

Suits..in every one of which he was sure to be foiled .

Howard.. foils the force of Spain.

Meletus, who is easily foiled and mastered in the hands of the great dialectician.

• abort ?1548– figurative and in figurative contexts. transitive . To bring to a premature end; to terminate without result or success. Also: to present in an…
• foil 1548– To overthrow, defeat (an antagonist); to beat off, repulse, discomfit (an assailant or an attack). †In Wrestling : To throw, to inflict a ‘foil’…
• ruin 1593– transitive . To spoil, thwart, or subvert completely (a project, design, hope, etc.); to cause to fail; to make entirely abortive.
• to throw out 1821– transitive . To cause (a person) to be distracted or interrupted in a course of action, speech, etc.; to cause to perform badly, make a mistake, or…
• to put a person's pot on 1864– Australian and New Zealand slang . to put a person's pot on (also to put the pot on a person ): to inform or tell tales against a person; to destroy a…
• mucker 1869– transitive . To ruin (one's chances); to mishandle, to bungle.
• collapse 1883– transitive . To cause to collapse, break down, fall in, or contract.
• ding 1936– transitive . Originally and chiefly North American . figurative . To damage, impair, or have a detrimental effect on (something abstract or…
• to fix (someone's) wagon 1951– Figurative phrases. to fix (someone's) wagon , to bring about (a person's) downfall, to spoil (his or her) chances of success. Cf. fix , v. II.14c. U.S. …
• awin Old English–1340 To overcome, conquer; to win, gain, obtain.
• overcome Old English– transitive . To get the better of, defeat, overpower, prevail over (an enemy, person or thing opposing one, etc.). Also in extended use.
• overheave Old English–1450 transitive . To pass over, neglect, omit.
• overwin Old English– transitive . To overcome; to conquer, vanquish.
• shend Old English–1829 To discomfit (in battle or dispute). Obsolete .
• to lay down a1225– transitive †To put down, overthrow ( obsolete ). Also Nautical of wind or sea: To make (a vessel) lie on its side.
• mate ?c1225–1646 transitive . To overcome, defeat, subdue. Also figurative .
• discomfit c1230– transitive . To defeat (an opponent or enemy) in battle; to beat, rout; to vanquish, overthrow. Also in extended use. Now rare .
• win 1297–1611 transitive . To conquer, subdue, overcome, defeat, vanquish, ‘beat’. Obsolete .
• daunt c1300–1610 transitive . To overcome, subdue, vanquish.
• cumber 1303–1600 transitive . To overwhelm, overthrow, rout, destroy. Obsolete .
• scomfit 1303–1530 transitive . To defeat, vanquish, discomfit.
• fenk c1320–40 transitive . To vanquish; conquer. Also absol.
• confound c1330– transitive . To defeat utterly, discomfit, bring to ruin, destroy, overthrow, rout, bring to nought (an adversary). Obsolete or archaic .
• confuse c1330–1400 transitive . To discomfit, to rout, to bring to ruin; = confound , v. 1. Only in passive . Obsolete .
• overset c1330–1619 transitive . To overpower, overwhelm, or overthrow by force, violence, etc. Obsolete .
• to bear down c1330– transitive . To push (a person or thing) to the ground; (in extended use) to overthrow; to defeat. Also figurative . Cf. downbear , v.
• to do, put arrear 1330–1559 Of action: to do, put arrear : to rout. to run arrear : to fall into confusion or disorder.
• vanquish c1330– transitive . To overcome or defeat (an opponent or enemy) in conflict or battle; to reduce to subjection or submission by superior force.
• conquer c1374– To overcome (an adversary), gain the victory over, vanquish, subdue.
• overthrow c1375– transitive . To cast down (a person or group of people) from a position of influence, prosperity, etc. Also: to defeat, conquer, overcome; to ruin…
• oppress c1380–1829 transitive . To overcome, put down, or subdue; to suppress; to check or put an end to; ( spec. ) to overwhelm (a person) in a fight or battle. Obsolete .
• outfight a1382–1887 transitive . To take by assault; to subdue, conquer, overcome. Obsolete (in later use archaic and poetic ).
• to put down a1382– transitive . To defeat or subdue (a person, army, etc.). Now rare or merged in sense 2b.
• discomfort c1384–1647 transitive . To defeat in battle; to frustrate, thwart, foil; = discomfit , v. 1. Obsolete .
• thresh c1384– transitive . To inflict a heavy defeat on (an army, nation, enemy, etc.) in a conflict or battle; to defeat (an opponent) easily or decisively in…
• vencue a1400–00 transitive . To vanquish, subdue.
• depress c1400–1675 transitive . To put down by force, overthrow (an enemy, opponent, etc.); to crush in a contest or struggle; to reduce to subjection, subdue. Obsolete .
• venque ?1402 transitive . To vanquish, subdue.
• ding ?a1425–1916 transitive . Chiefly Scottish . To defeat or overcome (a person, enemy, etc.) by force; to vanquish, rout. Obsolete .
• cumray c1425–1522 = cumber , v. 1, to overwhelm, rout.
• to put to (also at, unto) the (also one's) worse c1425–1919 to put to (also at, unto) the (also one's) worse : to defeat or discomfit in a contest or conflict. Obsolete .
• distruss c1430–1527 transitive . To strip or plunder; hence, to defeat, rout. Also figurative .
• to bring or put to (or unto) utterance 1430–1596 to bring or put to (or unto) utterance , to overcome completely, vanquish thoroughly; to bring to ruin or subjection, put to death. Obsolete .
• supprise c1440–1614 transitive . To overcome (a person) by force; to overpower, subdue. Also: to suppress, put down, put an end to (something). Obsolete .
• ascomfit a1450 To discomfit, rout.
• to do stress ?c1450 to do stress : to cause harm; (with to or indirect object) to inflict harm, injury, or hardship on (a person, place, etc.). Obsolete .
• victory a1470–1576 transitive . To overcome, vanquish.
• to make (win) a conquest 1477– to make (win) a conquest . Also to make a conquest of : to reduce to a conquered position, to conquer.
• convanquish 1483 transitive . To vanquish, overcome.
• conquest 1485–1644 To gain in war, conquer; to gain (a battle); to vanquish, beat.
• defeat 1485– transitive . To overcome or vanquish in a battle or war; to gain victory over (an army, enemy, etc.).
• oversail c1485–1500 transitive . To overthrow, conquer.
• conques 1488–1651 transitive . To gain in war, conquer; to win (a battle); to vanquish.
• discomfish 1488–1890 transitive . = discomfit , v. 1.
• distress 1489–1656 To crush in battle, overwhelm, coerce. Obsolete .
• overpress 1489–1700 transitive . To press (a person, etc.) with excessive physical force, so as to overcome; to crush. Obsolete .
• cravent 1490 transitive . To vanquish, to overthrow.
• utter ?1533–40 transitive . To vanquish, conquer, or overcome.
• to give (a person) the overthrow 1536–1616 to give (a person) the overthrow : to defeat or overthrow. to have the overthrow : to be defeated. Obsolete .
• debel 1542–1897 transitive . To put down in fight, subdue, vanquish; to expel by force of arms. Occasionally intransitive .
• convince 1548–1616 To overcome, conquer, vanquish; figurative to overpower. Also absol. Obsolete .
• out-war 1548–
• profligate 1548–1724 transitive . To overcome, vanquish (an enemy) in battle; to chase away, disperse. Also figurative , esp. in religious contexts. Obsolete .
• proflige ?c1550 transitive . = profligate , v. 1b.
• expugnate 1568–1625 transitive . = expugn , v.
• expugn 1570–1699 To overcome or expel by force of arms; to vanquish, overpower.
• damnify 1575–1653 transitive . To inflict injury upon (an opponent or enemy) in war. Obsolete .
• victor 1576–1683 transitive . To overcome, vanquish. Chiefly in past participle and participial adjective ˈvictored .
• dismay 1596 To defeat or rout by sudden onslaught. Obsolete .
• triumph 1605–67 To triumph over; to conquer. Obsolete .
• convict 1607–16 To overcome, vanquish, conquer; = convince , v. I.1. Obsolete . (Cf. convict , adj. I.5.)
• overman 1609– transitive . To overcome, overpower. Chiefly in passive . Now rare .
• thrash 1609– transitive . To inflict a heavy defeat on (an army, nation, enemy, etc.) in a conflict or battle. colloquial in later use.
• beat 1611– transitive . To overcome, to conquer in battle, or (in modern use) in any other contest, at doing anything; to show oneself superior to, to surpass…
• debellate 1611 = debel , v.
• import 1624 transitive . To gain victory over; to conquer, overcome. Obsolete . rare .
• to cut to pieces 1632– to cut to (or in) pieces : ( figurative ) to rout in battle with great slaughter.
• maitrise 1636–1817 transitive . To make (oneself) master of, to conquer.
• worst 1636– Cf. best , v.¹ transitive . To get the better of (an adversary) in a fight or battle; to defeat, overcome.
• force a1641–1781 To overpower by force. To compel to give way or yield; to overpower (troops, a guard). Obsolete .
• outfight 1650– transitive . To fight better than; to beat in a fight.
• outgeneral 1767– transitive . Military . To outdo or defeat in generalship; to get the better of by superior military skill; to outmanoeuvre.
• to cut up 1803– To overcome with great slaughter, ‘cut to pieces’: see II.7c.
• smash 1813– To defeat utterly; to crush completely; to overcome, overwhelm, or destroy.
• slosh 1890– colloquial . To hit, to strike; to crush, to defeat. Also figurative . Cf. slash , v.¹ 2b.
• ream 1918– U.S. slang . transitive . To vanquish, to beat. Also: to victimize, to punish severely.
• hammer 1948– figurative . To inflict heavy defeat(s) on, in war, games, etc.; to strike forcefully; to beat up. colloquial .
• powder 1973– transitive . U.S. slang . To defeat utterly, wipe out, destroy.
• to say checkmate a1346– Transf. to say checkmate (to any one): to say ‘you are beaten’, ‘your game is up’; to beat in a contest; to defeat, undo.
• vanquish c1366– To overcome (a person) by other than physical means. Also const. of (= in respect of).
• stightle a1375–1540 With hostile notion: To ‘dispose of‘, put down (an antagonist).
• outray c1390– transitive . To go beyond, overcome; to surpass, excel; †to vanquish, crush ( obsolete ). English regional ( northern ) in later use.
• to put under a1393–1602 transitive . To defeat, vanquish, overcome; to subdue; to put down, oppress. Obsolete .
• forbeat 1393–1470 To beat down, overcome.
• to shave (a person's) beard c1412–18 figurative . to shave (a person's) beard , to bring to discomfiture. Obsolete .
• adaw c1440–1557 transitive . To put an end to; to defeat, overcome. Obsolete .
• to knock down c1450– transitive . To strike or fell to the ground with a blow or blows; figurative to overcome, vanquish, cause to succumb. Also, to bring down by a…
• to put to the worst a1475–1813 to put to (also at) the worst : to defeat, overcome. Also to drive to the worst . Obsolete .
• waur c1475– transitive . To defeat in a contest or competition; to surpass, excel.
• to put out 1485 transitive . To thwart, foil, baffle (a person). Obsolete . rare .
• trim a1529– figurative . To beat, thrash, trounce; to defeat; also, to reprimand, reprove, upbraid, scold (cf. ‘to give one a dressing’).
• whip 1571– To overcome, vanquish, defeat; to surpass, outdo: = beat , v.¹ I.10. Also ( U.S. colloquial ) to whip one's weight in wildcats and variants: (to be…
• evict 1596–1667 transitive . To overcome (an adversary, adverse circumstances, etc.). Obsolete .
• superate 1598– transitive . To overcome, conquer; to get over, surmount. Cf. earlier superate , adj.
• reduce 1605– transitive . Without construction: to compel to submit or surrender; to bring (a person) under control or authority; to bring (a place) into…
• defail 1608 transitive . To cause to fail; to defeat.
• cast 1610–86 To defeat in competition. Chiefly in passive . Obsolete or dialect .
• bang a1616– transitive . To beat violently, knock about; to thrash or drub, defeat, worst. literal and figurative . Hence banged up adj., knocked about ( U.S. collo …
• evince 1620–78 transitive . To overcome, subdue, prevail over.
• worst 1646– Cf. best , v.¹ transitive . To defeat in argument, to outdo or prove better than (a person). Also: to overcome or foil (an undertaking). Frequently in p …
• conquer 1655– transferred and figurative . To get the better of; to master, overcome.
• cuff a1657–1791 To vanquish in fight, ‘beat’, ‘lick’. Obsolete .
• trounce 1657– To inflict chastisement upon; to punish; also, to get the better of, defeat.
• to ride down 1670– figurative . To overcome; to get the better of; to put down.
• outdo 1677– transitive . To beat, defeat, overcome; to exhaust. Frequently in passive . Now chiefly U.S. regional .
• rout a1704– transitive . To overcome (a person) in some way; to get the better of; to thwart, scupper; (occasionally) to confound.
• lurch a1716– figurative . To defeat. ? Obsolete .
• fling 1790– figurative . To give a fall to, cause to fall, overthrow. Also Scottish , to jilt.
• bowl 1793– Hence figurative ( colloquial or slang ). To bowl (a person) out, over, down .
• lick 1800– slang . To overcome, get the better of; to excel, surpass. it licks me : I cannot explain it. Also to lick into fits : to defeat thoroughly.
• beat 1801– transitive . To overcome, to conquer in battle, or (in modern use) in any other contest, at doing anything; to show oneself superior to, to surpass…
• mill 1810 slang . transitive . To beat, strike, thrash; to fight, overcome (cf. mill , n.⁴ , mill , v.² ); (occasionally) to kill. Obsolete .
• to row (someone) up Salt River 1828– figurative . In slang phrase to row (someone) up Salt River and variants, to defeat (a political opponent); to overcome, send to oblivion. Also with…
• defeat 1830– transitive . To beat (another person, team, or animal) in a contest or competition, esp. a sporting event.
• sack 1830– slang . To beat in a contest. (Cf. sack , v.² )
• skunk 1832– transitive . To defeat, beat, or get the better of (another person, team, etc.); spec. to prevent (an opponent) from scoring a single point…
• whop 1836– figurative . To overcome, vanquish, defeat utterly (with literal blows, or in a contest of any kind); hence, to surpass or excel greatly: = beat , v.¹ …
• pip 1838– transitive . To defeat or beat narrowly.
• throw 1850– transitive . figurative or in figurative context. To defeat in a contest; (also) to be the cause of defeat to.
• to clean out 1858– to clean out . To defeat or deal effectively with (a person); to eject from a place. U.S.
• take 1864– transitive . slang . To overpower, defeat; to kill. Also: to confront, attack (a person). Cf. to take out 1c at phrasal verbs 1c.
• wallop 1865– transitive . colloquial . To beat soundly, belabour, thrash; also occasionally used as humorously for beat , v.¹ in figurative senses, e.g. to get the…
• to sock it to 1877– transitive . In phrases. to sock it to (one): to strike, deal a blow to (that person); to ‘give it’ to (one). Hence figurative ; frequently in…
• whack 1877– figurative . To beat in a contest.
• to clean up 1888– to clean up (see also sense 3a). Various colloquial and slang uses (chiefly U.S. ). transitive . To beat, vanquish; spec. in gambling, to make a…
• to beat out 1893– North American colloquial . To get ahead of or prevail over (another), esp. in competition; to anticipate, improve upon (cf. I.10a).
• to see off 1919– transitive . Chiefly British (originally Military ). To defeat in a fight, competition, etc.; to remove, dispose of, or deal with the threat posed by…
• to lower the boom on 1920– North American slang . to lower the boom on : to inflict severe damage or harsh punishment on; to treat severely; (also) to put a stop to (an…
• tonk 1926– To beat or defeat. Frequently passive .
• clobber 1944– To hit; to thrash or ‘beat up’; to defeat, shoot down; to reprimand or criticize severely.
• ace 1950– U.S. slang . transitive . Frequently with out . To beat in competition; to outwit or outperform; to get the better of.
• to run into the ground 1955– Originally U.S. to run into the ground : (a) to carry (a thing) to excess, to overdo; (b) to destroy or damage beyond repair by excessive use, to…
• overdrive Old English–1580 transitive . To drive away, dispel; to overthrow. Obsolete .
• discuss ?c1400–1773 transitive . To drive away, dispel; to disperse, scatter. Obsolete .
• digest a1513–1727 To disperse, dissipate. Obsolete .
• profligate 1542–1845 transitive . To dispel or overcome (an abstract quality, state, or condition); to cure (a disease or disorder). Obsolete .
• depel ?1548–1788 transitive . To drive away, dispel, expel.
• sperse 1580– transitive . To cause to scatter or disperse; to drive in different directions.
• disparkle 1601 transitive . To scatter abroad, drive apart, disperse; = disparple , v. 1.
• redisperse 1621– transitive . To cause to disperse again.
• dispel a1631– transitive . To drive away in different directions or in scattered order; to disperse by force, dissipate (e.g. clouds, darkness, doubts, fears, etc.)
• fray 1635– simply . To drive away, disperse.
• dissipate 1691– figurative and transferred . To dispel (care, fear, doubt, or anything compared to cloud or darkness).

Fair hand!.. Strange, that your fingers should the pencil foil .

Woman, Nature's darling child, There..her other works are foil'd .

Nor chusing her charms should be foil'd By Lady Elizabeth Mugg.

• shame c1400– To confound or put to shame by superior excellence; to outrival.
• to put down 1494–1753 transitive . To lower in general estimation; to excel or surpass by comparison. Obsolete .
• extinguish 1551– transferred and figurative . To ‘quench’ or totally obscure by superior brilliancy; to ‘eclipse’, put completely into the shade.
• stain 1557–1648 Of the sun, etc.: To deprive (feebler luminaries) of their lustre. Also figurative of a person or thing: To throw into the shade by superior beauty…
• overshadow 1581– transitive . To tower over or above, esp. so as to cast a shadow over. Frequently figurative : to diminish the relative importance of (a person or…
• cloud 1582– To cover or darken with clouds; hence figurative , to overshadow, throw into the shade.
• deface a1592–1796 To outshine by contrast, cast in the shade.
• shend 1596 To put to shame by superiority. Obsolete .
• to lay up 1601 To surpass, excel. Obsolete .
• to shine down 1623– to shine down : to surpass in brilliance.
• dazzle 1643– To outshine, dim, or eclipse with a brighter light. Const. † down , out . rare .
• umbrage 1647– transitive . To shade or shadow; also figurative , to overshadow, put in the shade.
• foil a1687– To outdo, surpass.
• efface 1717– figurative . To cast utterly into the shade, reduce to virtual nonentity.
• eclipse 1718– To render dim by comparison; to outshine, surpass. Chiefly figurative .
• shade ?1748– In occasional figurative uses. To cast into the shade; to surpass, eclipse.
• put into the shade 1796 figurative . Comparative obscurity. Chiefly in phrases, to be in the shade , to be in retirement, to be little known; to cast, throw into the shade , put …
• to take the shine out of (less frequently from, U.S. off) 1819– figurative . Colloquial phrase to take the shine out of (less frequently from, U.S. off) : to deprive (a person or thing) of his or her or its…
• to put to shame 1854– to put to shame : to bring into disgrace, bring disgrace upon; also figurative to outshine, eclipse. Similarly, to bring, †shape, †turn to shame . Also…
• to leave (a person) standing 1864– to leave (a person or thing) standing (still) : to forge ahead of (a competitor); to be better, faster, or more successful than (a rival); to…
• blanket 1867– transitive . Sailing . Esp. with reference to racing: to block wind from the sail or sails of (another craft) by manoeuvring windward so that the…
• to lay over 1868– transitive ? U.S. colloquial . To excel, to ‘put in the shade’. Also to lay it over , to get the better of, take advantage of (a person).
• upstage 1921– figurative . To put (a person, etc.) at a disadvantage; to outshine. Also, to treat in a haughty or snobbish manner. colloquial .

His toil He took, lest that the English state might foil .

There be mindes which foyle in reading a history of great length, humane patience being not of any great extent.

• fall Old English– intransitive . To be cast down or brought to nothing; to pass out of power or use; esp. (of an empire, government, institution, or leader) to be…
• to come (also go) to the ground c1175– figurative in †to bring to the ground : to cast down, overthrow, overcome, subdue; to come (also go) to the ground : to be overcome; to perish; so t …
• to go away (also flee) with the worse a1413–1632 to go to (also unto) the worse : to be defeated or worsted, to fail. Similarly to go away (also flee) with the worse and variants. Obsolete .
• to go to (also unto) the worse 1485 to go to (also unto) the worse : to be defeated or worsted, to fail. Similarly to go away (also flee) with the worse and variants. Obsolete .
• to go to the wall (or walls) 1549– To give way, succumb in a conflict or struggle.
• foil 1591–1639 intransitive . To suffer discomfiture. Obsolete .
• to go to the post a1624 to go to the post : to go to the wall. Obsolete . rare .
• to bite the dust 1831– to bite the dust : (a) To fall to the ground as when wounded, esp. fatally; to die; (b) (more generally; somewhat colloquial ) to come to a disastrous…
• to have had one's chips 1959– colloquial (chiefly British ). to have had one's chips : to be completely beaten, ruined, destroyed, etc., beyond hope of recovery; to be facing…

Paul..had so many years been foiled with the..elvish expositions of certain doting doctors.

Least his credite foiled in his first attempt, in a second should vtterly be disgraced.

Faith shall be easily shaken, hope quickly foyled .

That whole businesse will be foyled .

He had been foiled in the Cure, and had left it to Nature.

Having long in miry ways been foiled .

To be foiled in a gallant intrigue, was to subject himself to the ridicule of his gay court.

He foiled the stroke of Chaléco.

The project..was foiled for a time.

But here their wits were foiled .

The narrow anxiety..is apt to foil its own end.

• blenk ?a1400 To cheat, disappoint, disconcert, bilk; or ? to turn aside or away. rare .
• mispoint 1480 transitive . To baulk, thwart.
• fruster 1490 transitive . To balk or defraud of something due or expected. Also, to falsify (a prediction).
• frustrate 1534– transitive . To prevent (something) from happening or succeeding; to stop or hinder (a plan, an endeavour, an action, etc.) from progressing or…
• disappoint 1545– Now the usual sense. transitive . To thwart, frustrate, or foil (an aim, undertaking, objective, etc.); to prevent the realization of (a hope…
• destitute a1563–1620 To make void, frustrate, defeat, disappoint.
• foil a1564– To frustrate, render nugatory (an attempt or purpose); to parry (a blow); to baulk, disappoint (hopes, etc.); to baffle, frustrate the efforts of…
• deceive 1571–1817 figurative . To prove false to; †to frustrate (a purpose, etc.) obsolete ; to disappoint (hope, expectation, etc.).
• thwart 1581– transitive . To oppose successfully; to prevent (a person, etc.) from accomplishing a purpose; to prevent the accomplishment of (a purpose); to foil…
• balk a1593– transitive . To place a balk in the way of. To disappoint (expectations, or a person in his or her expectations).
• discomfort 1596 transitive . To defeat in battle; to frustrate, thwart, foil; = discomfit , v. 1. Obsolete .
• unwont 1629 To disappoint.
• fail 1634–99 To disappoint (expectation). Obsolete . Cf. I.5.
• false ?c1225–1320 transitive . To cause to fail or give way; to foil (a weapon).
• confound c1315– To overthrow, defeat, or bring to nought (a scheme, plan, hope, etc.).
• mate a1400–1827 transitive . To disconcert; to make helpless with terror, shame, or discouragement; to daunt, abash, put to shame; to stupefy, baffle.
• interrupt 1464–1620 transitive . To hinder, stop, prevent, thwart. A person, etc., in or from some action. Const. of or with infinitive . Obsolete .
• blench 1485–1640 transitive . To disconcert, foil, put out, turn aside. Cf. blenk , v. I.4. Obsolete .
• fruster ?a1513–1608 To bring to nought, render useless; to frustrate (an enterprise); to destroy, lay waste, ruin. Also intransitive for reflexive .
• infatuate 1533–1724 transitive . To turn (counsels, etc.) into folly, to reduce to foolishness, exhibit the foolishness of; to confound, frustrate, bring to nought. Obs …
• prevent 1555–1652 transitive . To frustrate, defeat, or bring to nothing (an expectation, plan, etc.); to render void or invalid. Obsolete .
• blank 1566– To frustrate, make void, invalidate, bring to nought, disconcert (plans, etc.). archaic .
• confute 1589– To confound, render futile, bring to nought.
• dispurpose 1607 transitive . To defeat of its purpose.
• shorten 1608 transitive . To render (an intention) ineffectual. (Cf. short , v.¹ 5.) Obsolete .
• fool a1616–1887 transitive . figurative . To frustrate or ruin (a person’s plans, hopes, etc.). Obsolete .
• vain 1628 ( transitive ) to frustrate.
• balk 1635– transitive . To place a balk in the way of. To frustrate, foil, render unsuccessful.
• throw a1650– Scottish and Irish English ( northern ). transitive . To thwart, frustrate, oppose.
• scotch 1654– transitive . figurative . = sense 3b. Now rare .
• baffle a1674– To defeat (anyone) in his or her efforts; to frustrate or confound the plans of, to foil. A person.
• crossbar 1680 figurative . To obstruct, bar the way of. Obsolete .
• transverse 1770 figurative . To act or speak in opposition to; to cross, thwart; in Law = traverse , v. I.1. Obsolete .
• tomahawk 1773– figurative and in figurative contexts. Cf. tomahawk , n. 3. transitive . Chiefly North American . To thwart (a person or thing); to obstruct or prevent…
• throttle 1825– transitive . To constrain to a damaging degree; to hinder, inhibit, thwart; to crush, destroy.
• wreck 1855– To frustrate or thwart; to prevent the passing of (a measure, etc.).
• stultify 1865– To render nugatory, worthless, or useless.
• to put the blocks (also block) on 1880– colloquial . to put the blocks (also block) on : to thwart; to put an end to (an action or proceeding). Cf. sense I.i.5b.
• derail 1889– In extended and figurative uses. transitive . To impede, disrupt, or thwart (an activity, proceeding, plan, etc.) by diverting it from its…
• to pull the plug 1923– figurative . To release or unleash suddenly or early; (also, now more commonly) to prevent from happening or continuing; to bring to a sudden…
• rank 1924– U.S. Criminals' slang . Now rare . transitive . To spoil or thwart (something, esp. a criminal enterprise); to ruin.
• to warn (a person) his will 1340–1540 Phrases, to warn (a person) (of) his (or her) will ; to warn (a person's) thoughts .
• disappoint 1545–1648 To deprive of . transitive . To remove something from the possession of (a person or thing); to deprive or strip of something. Obsolete .
• balk 1589– transitive . To place a balk in the way of. To check, hinder, thwart (a person or his or her action).
• thorter 1608– ( transitive and intransitive ) to cross the path or way of; to thwart or oppose (a person).
• frustrate 1610– transitive . To disappoint, defeat, or thwart (a person) in his or her action or endeavour; to prevent (a person) from achieving a purpose or goal.
• derail 1891– In extended and figurative uses. transitive . To divert (a person) from his or her purpose; to confound or defeat (someone).
• bibergh Old English–1275 transitive . To protect oneself from, ward off.
• keep c1175–1450 transitive . To intercept (a missile); to ward off (a stroke). See kep , v. Obsolete .
• repel a1460– transitive . To ward off or resist (a weapon, blow, or injury). Also in figurative contexts.
• to put by a1530–1905 transitive . To turn aside, parry (a blow or thrust); ( figurative ) to ward off, avert (a threat, calamity, etc.). Formerly also intransitive . Obsolete …
• ward 1571– To parry, repel, fend off, turn aside (a stroke or thrust, blow, attack, weapon, missile). Now almost always with off .
• award 1579–1783 To ward off (blows, etc.).
• buckler a1616 transitive . To ward or catch (blows).
• guard 1654–95 To parry (a blow); to ward off . Obsolete .
• foil 1841– To frustrate, render nugatory (an attempt or purpose); to parry (a blow); to baulk, disappoint (hopes, etc.); to baffle, frustrate the efforts of…

Þei preche not to profit of þe folk but..to foile [ variant reading foulen] hem wiþ many synnes.

A man that hath be moche foyled wyth worldly or flesshely synnes.

A man hath no honour to foile his handes on a woman.

Ranc'rous enemies, that hourely toil Thy humble votarie with loathsome spot to foil .

Foil , to defile.

• afile Old English–1425 transitive . = defile , v.¹
• befile Old English–1532 transitive . To make foul or dirty; to defile.
• besmite Old English–1894 transitive . To pollute, to stain, to taint; to corrupt. Cf. smite , v. I.2. Obsolete ( archaic and poetic in later use).
• shend Old English–1876 To disfigure, spoil; to corrupt, infect; to defile, soil. Obsolete .
• widdle Old English transitive . To defile, pollute, profane.
• bisulien c1200 To pollute, make filthy.
• defoul c1320–1600 To render (materially) foul, filthy, or dirty; to pollute, defile, dirty.
• file 1340– transitive . To render (materially) foul, filthy or dirty; to pollute, dirty; to destroy the cleanness or purity of; = defile , v.¹ 2. Obsolete exc. di …
• foil c1380– To foul, defile, pollute. In material or immaterial sense. Obsolete exc. dialect . (In some modern dialects perhaps a pronunciation of file , v.² )
• smot a1387– transitive . To besmirch, defile, befoul. Also figurative .
• lime 1390–1593 To foul, defile. Obsolete .
• solwe a1400–40 transitive . To defile, soil, sully.
• surd a1400 transitive . To defile.
• infect c1425– transitive . To make (air, water, etc.) injurious to health; to contaminate with the causative agent of (a) disease. Cf. infection , n. I.2.
• filth a1450– transitive . To make foul or filthy ( literal and figurative ); to defile. Also occasionally intransitive .
• poison ?a1513– transitive . To make (a thing, spec. †a firearm) unfit for its purpose by the addition of, contact with, or contamination by a harmful or noxious…
• defile 1530– To render (materially) foul, filthy, or dirty; to pollute, dirty; to destroy the purity, cleanness, or clearness of.
• polluve 1533 transitive . = pollute , v.
• inquinate 1542– transitive . To pollute, defile, corrupt.
• pollute 1548– transitive . To make physically impure, foul, or filthy; to dirty, stain, or taint. Now esp. : to contaminate (the air, water, land, etc.) with…
• contaminate 1563– transitive . To render impure by contact or mixture; to corrupt, defile, pollute, sully, taint, infect.
• bumfiddle c1595–1679 transitive . To beat, strike, thrash. Cf. bumbaste , v. , bumfeage , v.
• impure 1598–1673 transitive . To render impure; to defile.
• conspurcate 1600–69 transitive . To defile, befoul, pollute. ( literal and figurative .)
• defoil 1601 transitive . To strip of leaves; = defoliate , v.
• sully a1616– transitive . To pollute, defile; to soil, stain, tarnish. In immaterial sense.
• vilify 1615–1781 To make morally vile; to degrade; also, to defile or dirty. Obsolete .
• deturpate 1623–64 transitive . To defile, pollute; to debase.
• impiate 1623 transitive . To pollute, defile.
• defedate 1628–1905 transitive . To contaminate or pollute.
• dreg 1628–1812 transitive . To make dreggy; to render turbid as with dregs.
• contemerate 1650–67 transitive . To defile; to violate.
• empoison 1656– transitive . To pollute or adulterate with a harmful or noxious substance; to contaminate; = poison , v. 4a.
• spot 1741 intransitive . To mar or sully something. Obsolete .

Hast thowe foylid my dowter.

Rather chose to die..Than filthie men should foile their chastitie.

Hast thou..no more regard to thy solemne othe than to foile it with periurie?

• jape 1382–1576 To seduce (a woman); to have sexual intercourse with. Obsolete .
• overlie c1400–1520 transitive . To have sexual intercourse with (a woman). Cf. overlay , v. II.7b. Obsolete .
• swive c1405– transitive . To have sexual connection with, copulate with (a female).
• foil c1440–1592 To dishonour; esp. to deflower (a woman), to violate (chastity).
• overlay ?a1475–1692 transitive . To have sexual intercourse with (a woman); = overlie , v. 2b. Obsolete .
• dock ?1536–1719 transitive . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with (a woman). Esp. in to dock the dell : to take the virginity of a young woman (cf. dell , n.² )…
• bed 1548– To take (a wife) to bed. archaic .
• possess 1592– transitive . To gain sexual possession of (a woman); to have sexual intercourse with. Also intransitive .
• knock 1598– To copulate with; also, to make pregnant. So in to knock a child (or an apple) out (of) .
• to get one's leg over 1599– With over as a preposition.
• enjoy 1602– To have sexual intercourse with (usually a woman).
• poke 1602– transitive . coarse slang . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with. Also intransitive .
• thrum 1611– slang . ( transitive ) In obscene sense: see quots. ? Obsolete .
• top a1616– transitive . To have sexual intercourse with (someone). Also, of a male animal: to copulate with (a female animal). Cf. cover , v.¹ I.6a, tup , v.
• rig a1625 transitive . coarse slang . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with (a woman). Obsolete . rare .
• swinge a1640–99 slang . = swive , v. See also quot. 1699.
• jerk 1650–1706 transitive . slang . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with (a woman). Cf. yark , v.² IV.10. Obsolete .
• night-work 1654 transitive . To work (something) at night. In quot. (probably): to persuade (a person) by means of sexual intercourse.
• wimble 1656– transferred . (Cf. wimble , n. 1b.)
• roger 1699– coarse slang (chiefly British ). transitive . Usually of a man: to have sexual intercourse with (a person, esp. a woman). Also intransitive . Cf. Roger , n.² 4.
• ram ?c1700–24 transitive . coarse slang . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with (a woman). Cf. tup , v. 1, ram , n.¹ 1c.
• rut a1706– transitive . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with. rare before 20th cent.
• tail 1778– slang . To copulate with (a woman).
• to touch up 1785– transitive . slang (chiefly British ). To have sexual contact with; to fondle or caress intimately; (now esp. ) to do this surreptitiously, without…
• peg 1842– transitive . slang . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with (someone). Also intransitive . Cf. peg , n.¹ III.7. Now rare .
• to get into —— c1890– intransitive . colloquial . To have sexual intercourse with (a woman).
• root 1922– transitive . Australian and New Zealand coarse slang . To have sexual intercourse with (a person). Also intransitive : to engage in sexual…
• lay 1934– To have sexual intercourse with (a woman). Occasionally intransitive , const. for : (of a woman) to have sexual intercourse with (a man). Also intrans …
• to knock up 1934– To make (a woman) pregnant; ( less commonly ) to have sexual intercourse with (a woman). slang (originally U.S. ).
• pump 1937– intransitive . coarse slang . To copulate. Also transitive : to copulate with (a woman).
• prong 1942– transitive . coarse slang (originally U.S. ). Esp. of a man: to copulate with. Cf. prong , n.² 3c.
• nail 1948– transitive . U.S. slang . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with. Cf. screw , v. II.7a.
• to slip (someone) a length 1949– slang . A penis; sexual intercourse; so to slip (someone) a length : (of a man) to have sexual intercourse with.
• to knock off 1953– slang . To copulate with, to seduce (a woman).
• thread 1958– Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with (a woman). slang .
• stuff 1960– coarse slang . (With male subject) to copulate with (someone). Occasionally intransitive .
• tup 1970– transitive . Of the ram: To copulate with (the ewe); also transferred ( coarse slang ), of a man: to copulate with (a woman).
• nut 1971– U.S. slang . transitive . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with (a woman).
• pussy 1973– intransitive . Of a man: to have sex with a woman or women; to engage in sexual play.
• service 1973– transitive . In extended use: (of a man) to have penetrative sexual intercourse with (a woman).
• priapize 1998– intransitive †To have sexual intercourse; to behave lasciviously (as participial adjective in quot. 1648) ( obsolete ). Now transitive : (of a male) to…
• rail 1998– coarse slang . transitive . Of a man: to have sexual intercourse with (someone).
• forlie c1275–1480 transitive . Of the man: To lie with, violate.
• defoul c1290–1596 To violate the chastity of, deflower, debauch. Often, esp. in later use, with the sense of defile .
• dishonour 1393– To violate the honour or chastity of; to defile.
• defile a1400–1769 To violate the chastity of, to deflower; to debauch. Obsolete . Cf. defoul , v. 4.
• file ?a1400–1586 To violate the chastity of, to deflower; to debauch. Obsolete = defile , v.¹ 4.
• spill a1400–88 To deprive of chastity; to violate. Obsolete .
• diviciate c1470 transitive . To corrupt, defile.
• foul ?1473–1607 transitive . To rape or sexually assault (a woman); to defile. Obsolete .
• fulyie c1540–1913 transitive . To defile, befoul; to dishonour; to violate (a woman). Also intransitive : to defecate.
• vitiate 1547–1791 To deflower or violate (a woman). Obsolete .
• dishonest 1565–1922 To violate the honour or chastity of; to defile.
• fray 1567 transitive . To bruise. Also, to deflower. Obsolete .
• out 1922– transitive . In the works of John Galsworthy: to dishonour or disgrace (a woman). In passive in quots.

They did nothing but feede and foyle in the summer of her sweete sun shine.

Swine..doe nothing else but feede and foile .

• shit a1382– Now chiefly coarse slang (see note at shit , n. & adj. ). transitive . To void as excrement. literal and figurative . Also with out .
• to defy out 1382 to defy out : to eject as excrement; to void.
• deliver ?a1425–1851 transitive . To expel (something) from the body; to vomit or defecate (something). Also in to deliver one's stomach : to vomit. Obsolete . rare . In…
• cack 1485– transitive . To void as excrement.
• evacuate 1542– transitive . To empty, clear out the contents of (a vessel or receptacle). Chiefly in uses more or less technical: To empty (the stomach, bowels, or…
• scour 1577– To remove, get rid of. Chiefly with adverbs, as away , off , out . To discharge, evacuate, purge away (a humour, disease, excrement, etc.).
• shoot 1594–1740 To eject from the body. To discharge (excreta); also (see quot. 1688). Also to shoot one's belly, bowels . Obsolete .
• foil 1599–1616 To cause filth, drop excrement; = file , v.² 1d.
• exstercorate 1609 transitive . To eject as dung.
• to dung out a1642–1718 transitive . Of an animal: to pass (a thing) as excrement; to discharge as or in dung. Obsolete . rare .
• move 1645– transitive . To stimulate (bowel activity), to cause (the bowels) to be evacuated. Also figurative .
• cast 1704 To void (excrements). Obsolete .
• to do one's doings 1957– In plural . colloquial . Excrement, excreta. to do one's doings : to defecate; = to do one's business at business , n. phrases P.7. Cf. do , n.¹ 6.

Pronunciation

• ð th ee
• ɬ rhingy ll

Some consonants can take the function of the vowel in unstressed syllables. Where necessary, a syllabic marker diacritic is used, hence <petal> /ˈpɛtl/ but <petally> /ˈpɛtl̩i/.

• a trap, bath
• ɑː start, palm, bath
• ɔː thought, force
• ᵻ (/ɪ/-/ə/)
• ᵿ (/ʊ/-/ə/)

Other symbols

• The symbol ˈ at the beginning of a syllable indicates that that syllable is pronounced with primary stress.
• The symbol ˌ at the beginning of a syllable indicates that that syllable is pronounced with secondary stress.
• Round brackets ( ) in a transcription indicate that the symbol within the brackets is optional.

View the pronunciation model here .

* /d/ also represents a 'tapped' /t/ as in <bitter>

Some consonants can take the function of the vowel in unstressed syllables. Where necessary, a syllabic marker diacritic is used, hence <petal> /ˈpɛd(ə)l/ but <petally> /ˈpɛdl̩i/.

• i fleece, happ y
• æ trap, bath
• ɑ lot, palm, cloth, thought
• ɔ cloth, thought
• ɔr north, force
• ə strut, comm a
• ər nurse, lett er
• ɛ(ə)r square
• æ̃ sal on

Simple Text Respell

Simple text respell breaks words into syllables, separated by a hyphen. The syllable which carries the primary stress is written in capital letters. This key covers both British and U.S. English Simple Text Respell.

b, d, f, h, k, l, m, n, p, r, s, t, v, w and z have their standard English values

• arr carry (British only)
• a(ng) gratin
• o lot (British only)
• orr sorry (British only)
• o(ng) salon

Variant forms

foil typically occurs about once per million words in modern written English.

foil is in frequency band 5, which contains words occurring between 1 and 10 times per million words in modern written English. More about OED's frequency bands

Frequency of foil, v.¹ , 1750–2010

* Occurrences per million words in written English

Historical frequency series are derived from Google Books Ngrams (version 2), a data set based on the Google Books corpus of several million books printed in English between 1500 and 2010.

The overall frequency for a given word is calculated by summing frequencies for the main form of the word, any plural or inflected forms, and any major spelling variations.

For sets of homographs (distinct entries that share the same word-form, e.g. mole , n.¹, mole , n.², mole , n.³, etc.), we have estimated the frequency of each homograph entry as a fraction of the total Ngrams frequency for the word-form. This may result in inaccuracies.

Smoothing has been applied to series for lower-frequency words, using a moving-average algorithm. This reduces short-term fluctuations, which may be produced by variability in the content of the Google Books corpus.

Frequency of foil, v.¹ , 2017–2023

Modern frequency series are derived from a corpus of 20 billion words, covering the period from 2017 to the present. The corpus is mainly compiled from online news sources, and covers all major varieties of World English.

Smoothing has been applied to series for lower-frequency words, using a moving-average algorithm. This reduces short-term fluctuations, which may be produced by variability in the content of the corpus.

Compounds & derived words

• foil , n.² c1478– A repulse, defeat in an onset or enterprise; a baffling check. archaic. †In early use often in phrases: to give a or the foil; to have, receive, take…
• fulyie , v. 1488–1913 transitive. To trample on; to injure, destroy; to defeat, overcome. Cf. foil, v.¹
• foiling , n.¹ a1533– The action of foil, v.¹ in various senses.
• foil , n.³ 1565 What is trampled under foot; hence, Manure, dung.
• foil , n.⁴ 1575– The track of a hunted animal.
• unfoiled , adj.¹ 1579– Not overcome, beaten, or baffled.
• foiled , adj. 1607– In senses of the verb; also of a horse: Injured.
• foilable , adj. 1611– That may be foiled or defeated.
• foiler , n. 1700– One who foils.
• enfoil , v. 1773–

Entry history for foil, v.¹

foil, v.¹ was first published in 1897; not yet revised.

foil, v.¹ was last modified in September 2024.

Revision of the OED is a long-term project. Entries in oed.com which have not been revised may include:

• corrections and revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations which have been added in subsequent print and online updates.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into foil, v.¹ in September 2024.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1897)

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OED Second Edition (1989)

• View foil, v.¹ in OED Second Edition

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Citation details

Factsheet for foil, v.¹, browse entry.