Meaning & Definition of word "Foul"

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    Foul

    /faʊl/

    noun:

    • 1. An action or instance of committing a fault or violation.
      • Example: The referee called a foul for pushing another player.
    • 2. Something that is foul; an offense.
      • Example: The foul odor in the room was unbearable.

    verb:

    • 1. To make something dirty or unclean.
      • Example: The factory's waste began to foul the nearby river.
    • 2. To commit a foul in sports or games.
      • Example: He fouled his opponent during the basketball game.

    adjective:

    • 1. Offensive to the senses, especially through having a disgusting smell or taste.
      • Example: The foul stench from the garbage made it difficult to breathe.
    • 2. Morally or ethically bad or wicked.
      • Example: He had a foul temper that made him difficult to work with.
    • 3. Causing harm or injury; harmful.
      • Example: The fouling of the waters presented a serious environmental danger.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Old English fūl meaning 'foul, filthy, disgusting'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    foul play:

    Deceptive or dishonest behavior.

    foul mood:

    A state of being in a bad or unpleasant mood.

    foul language:

    Curse words or highly offensive speech.

    Related Words

    fouling:

    The act of making something dirty or polluting.

    foulness:

    The quality of being foul; uncleanliness.

    Slang Meanings of foul

    Meaning: To mess up or fail.

    Example Sentence: He totally fouled his chances at the promotion.

    Meaning: To cheat or play unfairly.

    Example Sentence: Don't foul me like that in the game!