Synonyms

outfox

American

[out-foks] / ˌaʊtˈfɒks /

verb (used with object)

to outwit; outsmart; outmaneuver.

Politics is often the art of knowing how to outfox the opposition.

outfox British

/ ˌaʊtˈfɒks /

verb

(tr) to surpass in guile or cunning

"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 outfox

First recorded in 1960–65; out- + fox

Explanation

To outfox someone is to defeat them at something using quick thinking or sneaky tricks. Some of the most popular fictional detectives cleverly outfox their foes. You can attempt to outfox your opponent at poker using tricky strategies and bluffs. A political candidate can also try to outfox a rival, either through smart debate tactics or sneakier, more underhanded means. Outfox has been used in this way since the 1930s, from the old-fashioned verb fox, "to delude or deceive," which stems from the idea (popular in folklore) of foxes being wily or tricky.

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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.

U.S. developers say the ultimate goal is artificial general intelligence, systems that may eventually outfox humans by thinking independently.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 29, 2025

Earlier, world number 86 Maria used her slice-heavy style of play to outfox 11th-ranked Rybakina.

From BBC • Jun. 13, 2025

No one has to suppress a shudder of fear when he enters the room or worry that this guy is going to somehow outfox them.

From New York Times • Mar. 26, 2024