Definition of the word foul play

The term "foul play" originated during the Middle Ages in England, specifically in the context of sports. The word "foul" originally meant "unfair" or "wrongful" in this context. In sports like wrestling and football (known as rugby in its early days), there were no official rules or referees, and players were allowed to use any means necessary to gain an advantage over their opponents. Such tactics, such as kicking, tripping, and punching, were considered "foul play." As organized sports began to emerge during the 19th century, rules were established to govern sports, and referees were appointed to enforce them. "Foul play" continued to refer to any actions that violated these rules and gave one team an unfair advantage over the other. In modern times, the phrase "foul play" is used both in sports and in law enforcement contexts to indicate actions that are deceitful, criminal, or wrongful. In sports, it refers to violations of the rules, while in police investigations, it refers to criminal activity or wrongdoing. The earliest known written use of the phrase "foul play" in print is from 1768, in the Gentleman's Magazine, which reported on a cricket match in which one team engaged in "foul play" by "bowling underarm."