f-o-x-l-i-k-e
FOXLIKE means resembling or characteristic of a fox in appearance, behavior, or cunning. It describes someone or something that exhibits the clever, crafty, or sly qualities typically associated with foxes, making it a valuable 21-point word in Scrabble.
21
Points in Scrabble
Base tile values • No multipliers applied
FOXLIKE is an adjective that describes qualities, characteristics, or behaviors that resemble those of a fox. The word combines "fox" with the suffix "-like" to create a descriptive term that captures the essence of vulpine traits.
When something is described as foxlike, it typically refers to:
In Scrabble and word games, FOXLIKE is particularly valuable due to its high-scoring letter X (worth 8 points) combined with other strategic letters. The word offers excellent opportunities for crossword connections and can be played to maximize point multipliers on the board.
FOXLIKE is a compound word formed from two distinct parts:
Fox (Old English: fox)
Derives from Proto-Germanic *fuhsaz, related to Sanskrit puccha meaning "tail." The word has remained relatively unchanged in English for over a millennium, referring to the cunning canine known for its intelligence and adaptability.
-like (Old English: -lic)
A productive suffix meaning "having the characteristics of" or "similar to." This suffix has been used in English word formation since before the 12th century to create adjectives that describe resemblance.
The combination first appeared in written English during the 16th century, coinciding with increased literary use of compound adjectives to create more descriptive language.
"Foxlike cunning" - Describes exceptional cleverness or craftiness in achieving one's goals
"Foxlike features" - Refers to sharp, angular facial characteristics reminiscent of a fox
"Foxlike agility" - Describes quick, nimble movements similar to those of a fox
"Foxlike stealth" - The ability to move quietly and remain undetected
•FOXLIKE contains two high-value letters: X (8 points) and K (5 points), making it worth 21 base points in Scrabble
•In literature, "foxlike" is often used to describe characters who are clever antagonists or trickster figures
•The word can be strategically placed to form multiple crosswords, as it contains common letters like E, I, and L
•Foxes have been symbols of cunning in folklore across cultures, from Aesop's fables to Japanese kitsune legends
•Playing FOXLIKE across a triple word score can yield 63 points before any letter multipliers
"Her foxlike grin suggested she knew more than she was letting on."
"The detective's foxlike cunning helped him solve the most complex cases."
"With foxlike stealth, the thief slipped through the shadows undetected."
"His foxlike features - sharp nose and alert eyes - made him instantly recognizable."
The concept of foxlike behavior has deep roots in world literature and folklore. From Reynard the Fox in medieval European tales to the shape-shifting kitsune in Japanese mythology, foxes have consistently represented intelligence, trickery, and adaptability.
In modern usage, describing someone as "foxlike" can be either complimentary (highlighting their intelligence) or critical (suggesting deceptiveness). The word appears frequently in detective fiction and psychological thrillers, where characters must use foxlike cunning to outwit their opponents.
The term has also found its way into business vocabulary, where "foxlike thinking" refers to strategic adaptability and the ability to find creative solutions to complex problems.
Spelling: Don't confuse with "fox-like" (hyphenated form). In Scrabble, only the single-word version FOXLIKE is valid.
Placement: Avoid wasting the X on a regular square - always aim for letter multipliers with high-value tiles.
Timing: Don't play FOXLIKE too early if you can build toward a seven-letter word for the 50-point bonus.
Dictionary: Verify that your word game accepts compound adjectives - some versions may not include FOXLIKE.