Vulpecular

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. This descriptor indicates traits associated with foxes, covering qualities like slyness and cunning nature while implying a resemblance in behavior or appearance to these animals
2. This adjective pertains to qualities commonly linked with foxes, including cleverness and craftiness, as well as an appearance or demeanor that mimics these creatures
3. Describing features or behavior that resemble those of a fox, including craftiness and agility

Etymology: "Vulpecular" is a rare adjective meaning fox-like or sly, and its history is built directly on the Latin name for a small constellation. "Vulpecula" is the Latin word for "little fox," a diminutive of "vulpes," fox. It was the name given to the faint constellation Vulpecula, the Little Fox, which lies near Sagitta and Cygnus in the northern sky. The adjective is formed from "Vulpecula" with the English suffix "-ar," which turns a noun into an adjective meaning "relating to" or "resembling" the thing named. So "vulpecular" literally means "of or relating to the little fox," and its sense of sly or foxlike carries the animal's reputation into English.

Synonyms: fox-like, foxish, sly