Meaning & Definition of word "Foul"

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!