foul

Definition

  • noun: an action that is against the rules and for which a player is given a penalty
  • noun: something foul
  • verb: to make (a substance, place, etc.) dirty
  • verb: to become or be foul
  • adjective: very unpleasant to taste or smell
  • adjective: offensive to the senses
  • often + 'off'
  • synonyms: loathsome, bird, filthy

Examples

  • The company's deal with the government has brought 'cries/accusations of foul play' [=claims that there have been unfair or dishonest acts] from its competitors.

  • She is still missing, and the police now suspect that she may have been a victim of 'foul play'. [=that she may have been murdered or harmed in some way]

  • After leaving school she 'fell foul of' the law. [=she got into trouble with the law; she was arrested for committing a crime]

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) - Not so far. Frank Hackett just walked in. We had to abort the show. So far over fucking phone calls... complaining about the foul language. - What page are you putting it on? - Hackett just walked in. - ABC again. - Tell 'em to go fuck themselves. That goes for you, too, Marty. (..)
    1976 Network