playful

adjective

play·​ful ˈplā-fəl How to pronounce playful (audio)
Synonyms of playfulnext
1
: full of play : frolicsome, sportive
a playful kitten
2
playfully adverb
playfulness noun

Examples of playful in a Sentence

She's an old dog, but she's still very playful. He had a playful expression on his face. a playful tone of voice You're certainly in a playful mood! She gave him a light playful slap on the knee.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
From glassware and accessories to kitchen tabletop and home decor, these functional yet giftable pieces combine cheerful patterns, playful details and practical use. ABC News, 16 June 2026 Front patch pockets add a playful, retro look. Kate Donovan, Southern Living, 16 June 2026 Start small and visible, choosing one brave share or playful demo, because steady, kind action suits your energetic stride today. Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 16 June 2026 Scout, the older of the two, plays the role of big brother, while Montana is the more adventurous and playful one, with Scout keeping him in check, according to the representative. Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for playful

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of playful was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Playful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/playful. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

playful

adjective
play·​ful ˈplā-fəl How to pronounce playful (audio)
1
: full of play : fond of playing
a playful kitten
2
: humorous
a playful tone of voice
playfully adverb
playfulness noun

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