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foxtail

American  
[foks-teyl] / ˈfɒksˌteɪl /

noun

  1. the tail of a fox.

  2. any of various grasses having soft, brushlike spikes of flowers.


foxtail British  
/ ˈfɒksˌteɪl /

noun

  1. any grass of the genus Alopecurus , esp A. pratensis , of Europe, Asia, and South America, having soft cylindrical spikes of flowers: cultivated as a pasture grass

  2. any of various similar and related grasses, esp any of the genus Setaria

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of foxtail

late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425; fox, tail 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The analysis showed average air temperatures below 66 or above 77 degrees Fahrenheit made fomesafen, glyphosate, and mesotrione -- representing three herbicide sites of action -- less effective on waterhemp, giant foxtail, and morning-glory species.

From Science Daily • Nov. 19, 2024

But move in closer and you’ll find some surprising details‚ including a ground-level arcade dotted with rough tree ferns and a rooftop patio planted with foxtail agaves and purpletop vervain.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 21, 2023

The fox tricks the barnyard animals in the foxtail version.

From New York Times • Dec. 15, 2021

Another tried to hide a plush blanket that was covered in foxtail seeds, ruined by an impromptu picnic.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 30, 2021

The meadow was full of foxtail and whisk and couch and many other kinds of grass Tendai didn’t recognize.

From "The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm" by Nancy Farmer