foil
US /fɔɪl/
UK /fɔɪl/

1.
2.
a person or thing that contrasts with and so emphasizes and enhances the qualities of another
:
•
The quiet, thoughtful character served as a perfect foil to the impulsive protagonist.
•
His dry wit was a good foil for her exuberant personality.
3.
a light, slender sword with a blunt point, used for fencing
:
•
He practiced his lunges with a fencing foil.
•
The fencer saluted with his foil before the match began.