General
foxing
What does foxing mean?
Pretending to be asleep, knocked out, or otherwise unaware — usually to avoid a cell search, a fight, a count, or an unwanted visitor. The fox plays dead. In prisons it's also used when an inmate fakes out after a kicking so the screws think it's worse than it is.
"He's foxing, guv — give him a prod, he was wide awake a minute ago."
Origin
From the fox's well-known 'playing dead' trick. In English slang since at least the 18th century; carried into prison and military use.
Frequently asked questions
What does "foxing" mean?
Foxing is faking sleep or unconsciousness to dodge or avoid something.
How do you use "foxing" in a sentence?
"He was foxing on the couch so he wouldn't have to help clean up."
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