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foxtail

American  
[foks-teyl] / ˈfɒksˌteɪl /

noun

  1. the tail of a fox.

  2. any of various grasses having soft, brushlike spikes of flowers.


foxtail British  
/ ˈfɒksˌteɪl /

noun

  1. any grass of the genus Alopecurus , esp A. pratensis , of Europe, Asia, and South America, having soft cylindrical spikes of flowers: cultivated as a pasture grass

  2. any of various similar and related grasses, esp any of the genus Setaria

"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

Etymology

Origin of foxtail

late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425; see origin at fox, tail 1

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.

Drag performances throughout the event will range from Charli Foxtail and Hot Pink Shade to HoochiePapa.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 1, 2023

Foxtail grasses: These grasses are extremely dangerous to dogs.

From Washington Post • May 4, 2022

Friday’s result: Foxtail stalked for the start of the race but back off entering the far turn and never was a factor from there.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 31, 2019

Businesses such as Foxtail Coffee, East End Market and Red Light Red Light will be distributing packages of milkweed seeds to customers as well.

From Washington Times • May 11, 2018

Lower scales unawned; stem branched at the base Floating Foxtail, Alopecurus geniculatus. 6a.

From The Plants of Michigan Simple Keys for the Identification of the Native Seed Plants of the State by Gleason, Henry Allan

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