As a linguistic expert with a deep understanding of the intricacies of the English language, I am delighted to address the question of the plural form of the word "fox." The English language is rich with exceptions and peculiarities, and the word "fox" is no exception to this rule. It is a fascinating subject that delves into the nuances of grammar and the evolution of language.

The word "fox" is a noun that refers to a small to medium-sized carnivorous mammal with a pointed snout and a bushy tail, known for its cunning nature and agility. When we talk about more than one fox, the plural form of the word is "foxes." This is a straightforward application of the general rule in English that most nouns ending in 's', 'x', 'z', 'ch', or 'sh' form their plural by adding 'es' to the end.

However, the complexity of the word "fox" extends beyond its plural form. As you rightly pointed out, the word has an unusual feminine form, which is "vixen." This is a unique characteristic of the word because in English, most nouns do not have distinct masculine and feminine forms. The term "vixen" is used specifically to refer to an adult female fox, and it is derived from the Old English word "fifne."

The confusion surrounding the plural of "fox" may also stem from the fact that some nouns in English do not change in the plural form, such as "deer" and "sheep." However, "fox" is not one of these exceptions and should be pluralized as "foxes."

It is also worth noting that the word "fox" has been used metaphorically in literature and idiomatic expressions. For example, the phrase "a sly fox" is used to describe someone who is cunning or deceitful. The word has also been personified in fables and folklore, most notably in Aesop's fables, where the fox often represents cleverness and trickery.

In conclusion, the plural form of "fox" is "foxes," following the standard English rule for pluralization. The term "vixen" is used for the female fox, adding a layer of complexity to the word's usage. Understanding the plural form of "fox" and its unique feminine form provides insight into the richness of the English language and its many exceptions.

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plural foxes. Learner's definition of FOX. 1. a [count] : a small wild animal that is related to dogs and that has a long pointed nose and a bushy tail. b [noncount] : the fur of a fox -- often used before another noun.read more >>