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View synonyms for befoul

befoul

[ bih-foul ]

verb (used with object)

  1. to make dirty or filthy; soil; defile; sully:

    a bird that befouls its own nest.



befoul

/ bɪˈfaʊl /

verb

  1. tr to make dirty or foul; soil; defile
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Derived Forms

  • beˈfoulment, noun
  • beˈfouler, noun
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Other Words From

  • be·fouler noun
  • be·foulment noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of befoul1

First recorded in 1275–1325, befoul is from the Middle English word bi-foulen. See be-, foul
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Example Sentences

And, inevitably, that serial killer himself soon arrives in town, thus befouling Isaiah’s refuge.

Adolf Hitler, despite being the most evil force ever to befoul mankind, was also a kind and conscientious employer.

Self-consciousness compels such creatures to befoul their origin.

He, the officer, must befoul his person and derange his hours of rest and recreation, that others may enjoy.

Why, I would rather lose the power of speech for ever than befoul your ears with the record of my shame.

The fumes of tobacco befoul the air around, and public health suffers in consequence.

I could not prevent myself from saying, "Do you think it is nice to befoul your own nest?"

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before you know itbefriend