noun
foil
A character whose contrast with another highlights that other's qualities.
The cautious sidekick serves as a foil to the reckless hero.
Etymology
The older word names a leaf or thin sheet. A metal foil behind a gem made it stand out, supplying the figurative idea of a contrast that highlights another character.
More examples
- The detective's impatient partner is a foil for her calm, methodical approach.
- The two sisters act as foils, revealing each other's strengths and weaknesses.
- By making the villain generous, the author creates an unexpected foil to the selfish hero.
Forms
foil · foils
Similar words
- opposite
- A sharply different character, not necessarily used to reveal qualities.
- counterpart
- A character with a corresponding role, not necessarily contrasting qualities.