Definition

Having yellowish-brown stains, often due to age or exposure to moisture.

Example

The old book was foxed, making it difficult to read some of the pages.

Conversation

Have you seen my old book? It's gotten all foxed over the years.

Yeah, I remember it looking a bit worn.

I guess that's what happens when you love a book too much.

True! It gives it character, though.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'foxed' originates from the Old English 'fox', meaning a small, cunning animal, and the suffix '-ed', which indicates a past participle or completed action. The term 'foxed' originally referred to the act of being made to look like a fox, often used in the context of paper that has become discolored or stained, resembling the color of a fox's fur.

Memory Tip

Think of the cunning animal, the fox, and how something that is 'foxed' has taken on a similar appearance, often becoming discolored or stained.

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