foul
|foul|
B2
/faʊl/
offensive or unfair
Etymology
Etymology Information
'foul' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'fūl', where 'fūl' meant 'dirty or unclean'.
Historical Evolution
'fūl' changed from Old English word 'fūl' and eventually became the modern English word 'foul'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'dirty or unclean', but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'offensive to the senses' and 'unfair play'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an unfair or invalid stroke or piece of play, especially in sports.
The referee called a foul on the player for tripping.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
to make dirty or pollute.
The oil spill fouled the pristine beach.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42