Emily Dickinson Lexicon

FOX, n. [Sax. fox; G. fuchs; D. vos.]

1. An animal of the genus Canis, with a straight tail, yellowish or straw-colored hair, and erect ears. This animal burrows in the earth, is remarkable for his cunning, and preys on lambs, geese, hens or other small animals.
2. A sly, cunning fellow.
3. In seamen's language, a seizing made by twisting several rope-yarns together.
4. Formerly, a cant expression for a sword. Shak.