foiled
1 Americanverb
adjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of foiled1
First recorded in 1300–50 as a verb, for an earlier sense; foil 1 ( def. ) + -ed 1 ( def. ), and in 1680–90 as an adjective; foil 1 ( def. ) + -ed 2 ( def. )
Origin of foiled2
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A fraudster who tried to sell bogus ancient statues to Sotheby's was foiled when his fake accompanying paperwork was found to be written with printing methods that were 25 years too modern, a court heard.
From BBC ● May 22, 2026
Of all the species they have tried to bank, Ellyn said Juniper had foiled them three years in a row.
From BBC ● Apr. 11, 2026
Iran's military claims the US operation was "completely foiled", but has not given a full account of events.
From Barron's ● Apr. 5, 2026
Iran-linked plots have also been foiled beyond Europe, pointing to a broader campaign.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 25, 2026
Penelope seized the opportunity to ask, “As I said, it is the man called Quinzy who foiled your plans, not us. Will you tell me how you came to know him to begin with?”
From "The Unseen Guest" by Maryrose Wood
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
