noun
Uncommon
foe
foh
Foe (noun) means an enemy, especially one actively opposed to or fighting against someone. Example: “The knight faced his oldest foe on the battlefield.”
noun
1
An enemy, especially one actively opposed to or fighting against someone.
"The knight faced his oldest foe on the battlefield."
"Poverty remains humanity's stubborn foe."
How to use foe
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn enemy or opponent, often used in a somewhat formal or literary way.
When to use it
"Foe" sounds more literary or dramatic than the everyday word "enemy."
Common pairings
friend or foe
a formidable foe
sworn foe
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Word forms
- Plural
- foes
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The knight faced his oldest _____ on the battlefield.
Etymology
From Old English fāh ("hostile"), from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "to hate" — the same root that gave us words for feuding.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for foe
See all rhymes for foe →Frequently asked questions
What does “foe” mean?
The word “foe” means an enemy, especially one actively opposed to or fighting against someone. In plain terms, an enemy or opponent, often used in a somewhat formal or literary way.
How do you pronounce “foe”?
“Foe” is pronounced foh (/foʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “foe” in a sentence?
Here is “foe” used in a sentence: “The knight faced his oldest foe on the battlefield.”
What is the opposite of “foe”?
The opposite of “foe” — its antonyms — are ally and friend.
What part of speech is “foe”?
“Foe” is a noun.
Where does the word “foe” come from?
The word “foe” comes from Old English. From Old English fāh ("hostile"), from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "to hate" — the same root that gave us words for feuding.
Is “foe” a common word?
“Foe” is an uncommon word in modern English.
