fox

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a person who is very clever and good at tricking others.

n. a person characterized by cunning, craftiness, or strategic ingenuity.

“Don't trust his business advice; he is a real old fox.”

“The veteran politician was a wily old fox who knew exactly how to manipulate the media to his advantage.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun aviation Technical

n. a code word used by pilots when they fire a missile.

n. a brevity code used by NATO pilots to indicate the launch of an air-to-air munition.

“The pilot shouted 'Fox Three' as he launched the long-range missile.”

“Standardized brevity codes like 'Fox One' ensure that all friendly forces understand the type of weapon system currently being deployed in the engagement.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate British English

v. to confuse someone so much that they do not know what to do.

v. to baffle, perplex, or outwit someone through complexity or cunning.

“This difficult maths problem has completely foxed me.”

“The sudden change in market regulations foxed even the most experienced financial analysts at the firm.”

C2 · Proficiency Technical

v. to develop brown spots on old paper because of age or dampness.

v. to develop brownish-yellow spots on paper, typically caused by fungal growth or oxidation in humid conditions.

“The pages of the antique book were badly foxed and hard to read.”

“Collectors often discount the value of nineteenth-century prints if the margins are heavily foxed due to poor storage conditions.”