English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word foil in English

What does foil mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

foil

US /fɔɪl/
UK /fɔɪl/
"foil" picture

Noun

1.

a thin sheet of metal, especially aluminum, used for wrapping food

Example:
•
Wrap the leftovers tightly in aluminum foil.
•
She covered the dish with foil before putting it in the oven.
Synonym:
sheetleaflamina
2.

a person or thing that contrasts with and so emphasizes and enhances the qualities of another

Example:
•
The quiet, thoughtful character served as a perfect foil to the impulsive protagonist.
•
His dry wit was a good foil for her exuberant personality.
Synonym:
contrastcounterpartcomplementset-off
3.

a light, slender sword with a blunt point, used for fencing

Example:
•
He practiced his lunges with a fencing foil.
•
The fencer saluted with his foil before the match began.

Verb

1.

prevent (something undesirable) from succeeding

Example:
•
The police managed to foil the bank robbery.
•
Their plans were foiled by unexpected bad weather.
Synonym:
thwartfrustratebaffledefeatcircumventcheckderailhamperhinderimpedeobstructruinspoilstopundoupset
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Related Word:
aluminium foil