volpe

fox

noun VOL-peh Rare

Origin: Latin vulpes (fox).

Usage Note

Volpe is grammatically feminine even when referring to a male fox; the male-specific form volpone exists but is rarely used for the animal. Figuratively, calling someone una volpe means they are cunning or sly — a classic Italian compliment-insult. The plural is regular: le volpi.

Examples

"La volpe corre veloce nel bosco."

Natural Translation

The fox runs fast in the woods.

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