red fox

American  

noun

1. a fox, Vulpes vulpes, usually having orangish-red to reddish-brown fur.

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red fox British  

noun

1. the common fox, Vulpes vulpes , which has a reddish-brown coat: family Canidae , order Carnivora (carnivores)

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Etymology

Origin of red fox

An Americanism dating back to 1630–40

Example Sentences

A red fox that managed to slip onto a US-bound ship in Britain was discovered by customs officers in the Port of New York, a zoo in the city has said.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

The stunning Sierra Nevada red fox is one of the nation’s rarest and most critically threatened mammals with fewer than 50 believed to remain in the Sierra.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 10, 2026

"In this image, you can see a red fox walking along a tree branch at a considerable height from the ground, demonstrating that these animals are true tightrope walkers of nature," says Fernandez.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2024

In addition to the large stuffed animal meant to mimic the kit’s mother, staff also put a smaller stuffed red fox in her enclosure.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 12, 2024

A red fox perched on a stump, two dusky kits peeking around the vixens back.

From "Bone Gap" by Laura Ruby