afoul

adv

Etymology: From a- + foul.

1. In a state of collision or entanglement.

   “The ships’ lines and sails were all afoul.”

   “After paying out chain, we swung clear, but our anchors were no doubt afoul of hers.”

2. In a state of entanglement or conflict (with).

   “He had a knack for running afoul of the law.”

   “What the devil’s the matter with me? I don’t stand right on my legs. Coming afoul of that old man has a sort of turned me wrong side out.”