Fox Meaning and Definition
Fox
Pronunciation
/fɒks/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A small to medium-sized, omnivorous mammal of the family Canidae, having a bushy tail, pointed ears, and sharp teeth, known for its cunning and adaptability.
Examples
- The foxes in the forest were known for their clever hunting strategies.
- The red fox is the most widely distributed species of fox.
Synonyms
- Gopher
- Weasel
Antonyms
- Lion
- Bear
Etymology
The word Fox is derived from Old English “fox”, which is itself derived from the Proto-Germanic “fuhsiz”, itself derived from the Proto-Indo-European “pékuos”, meaning “fox”.
Usage Notes
The word Fox is often used metaphorically to describe a cunning or adaptable person.
Cultural References
The Fox has appeared in various forms of media, including literature, film, and folklore. One famous example is the character of Sly Fox from Aesop’s Fables.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Foxy – clever or cunning
- Play Fox – to play tricks or deceive someone
Related Words or Phrases
- Wild
- Coyote
- Wolf
Collocations
- Foxy tricks
- Foxhole
Frequency of Use
The word Fox is commonly used in everyday language, particularly in informal settings.
Common Misspellings
- Focks
- Fooks