Foil Definition & Meaning

foil
noun
  1. a piece of thin and flexible sheet metal; "the photographic film was wrapped in foil"
  2. anything that serves by contrast to call attention to another thing's good qualities; "pretty girls like plain friends as foils"
  3. a device consisting of a flat or curved piece (as a metal plate) so that its surface reacts to the water it is passing through; "the fins of a fish act as hydrofoils"
  4. picture consisting of a positive photograph or drawing on a transparent base; viewed with a projector
  5. a light slender flexible sword tipped by a button
verb
  1. enhance by contrast; "In this picture, the figures are foiled against the background"
  2. hinder or prevent (the efforts, plans, or desires) of; "What ultimately frustrated every challenger was Ruth's amazing September surge"; "foil your opponent"
  3. cover or back with foil; "foil mirrors"

"Foil" in song lyrics

See how foil is used in real songs:

  • "Pass me that foil"
    Anotha Level — What's That Cha Say
  • "Remember then, Twista when you wasn't aluminum foil"
    Bizzy Bone — Schizophrenic
  • "You be sipping on that oil, you dip off in that foil"
    Bone Crusher f/ Bun B, La Chat, Lil' Flip — Grippin' the Grain (Remix)

Usage tips for "foil"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "foil" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for foil to find words that pair well.

Use "foil" in a verse

Now that you know what "foil" means, try using it in your own lyrics:

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