foil
foil1 definition
foil (fo̵il)
transitive verb
- to keep from being successful; thwart; frustrate
- Hunting to make (a scent, trail, etc.) confused, as by recrossing, in order to balk the pursuers
Etymology: ME foilen < OFr fuler, to trample on, subdue: see full
noun
- Archaic the scent or trail of an animal
- Archaic a thwarting
foil2 definition
foil (fo̵il)
noun
- a leaflike, rounded space or design between cusps or in windows, etc., as in Gothic architecture
- a very thin sheet or leaf of metal; specif., such a sheet, as of aluminum, used for wrapping food, etc.
- the metal coating on the back of a mirror
- a thin leaf of polished metal placed under an inferior or artificial gem to give it brilliance
- a person or thing that sets off or enhances another by contrast
Etymology: ME < OFr fuil (Fr feuille), a leaf < L folia < folium, leaf: see foliate
transitive verb
- to cover or back with foil
- Rare to serve as a contrast to
- to decorate (windows, etc.) with foils
foil3 definition
foil (fo̵il)
noun
- a long, thin fencing sword with a button on the point to prevent injury
- the art or sport of fencing with foils
Etymology: < ?
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