Definition

A female fox, or (often derogatory) a woman regarded as malicious, spiteful, or seductive. The animal term is neutral; the human application carries complex cultural baggage.

Example Usage

The vixen stalked rabbits through the meadow at dusk.

Origin

From Middle English and Old English, derived from Germanic roots; applied metaphorically to women since at least the 14th century.

Fun Fact

In medieval literature and fables, Reynard the Fox's wife Hermeline is a classic vixen character, establishing the archetype in Western storytelling.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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