foil

/foʊl/ /foʊɪl/

Definitions

1. noun

a thin, flexible sheet of metal, typically made of aluminum or tin, used for wrapping food to prevent it from coming into contact with air, and thereby preventing spoilage or browning

“She placed the chicken breast in foil to cook in the oven.”

2. verb

to cover or wrap something in foil, typically to prevent it from coming into contact with air

“The chef foiled the cake to keep it warm before serving.”

3. verb

to prevent or thwart something, especially a plan or an attack

“The police foiled the robbers’ plan by arriving just in time.”

4. verb

to cover or protect something by making it seem more attractive or appealing, especially in order to deceive or mislead

“The politician foiled his opponent’s reputation by spreading false rumors.”

5. noun

a false or misleading appearance or impression

“The politician’s foil was his charming smile, which hid his true intentions.”

6. noun

a person or thing that serves as a contrast or comparison to something else

“The politician’s foil was the honest journalist who exposed the truth.”

Synonyms

  • cover
  • shield
  • wrap

Antonyms

  • expose
  • reveal