interplay

noun

in·​ter·​play ˈin-tər-ˌplā 

: interaction

the interplay of opposing forces

interplay

ˌin-tər-ˈplā  ˈin-tər-ˌplā 

intransitive verb

Examples of interplay in a Sentence

the interplay between the old and the new

enjoys the interplay of three very different flavors

Recent Examples on the Web

While the interplay of these competing atmospheres can be compelling, the overall effect loses its power as the novelty wears off. —Maxie Younger, Pitchfork, 11 Feb. 2026

Through documentary works and material, the exhibition outlines the complex interplay between traditional Chinese philosophies and the new worldview forged by intelligent machines. —Denni Hu, Footwear News, 10 Feb. 2026

Yemen has been mired for more than a decade in a civil war that involves a complex interplay of sectarian and tribal grievances and the involvement of regional powers. —Arkansas Online, 8 Feb. 2026

The aim of this was to determine how magnetic stress accumulates in such systems, but future modeling will be needed to determine how magnetic interplay plays a role in the final moments of a neutron star merger. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 4 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for interplay

• aaa
• adonais
• alleyway
• alumnae
• anime
• anyway
• arete
• attache
• baa
• beaujolais
• bouvier
• breakaway

Kids Definition

interplay

noun

in·​ter·​play ˈint-ər-ˌplā 

: mutual action or influence : interaction

interplay

ˌint-ər-ˈplā 

ˈint-ər-ˌplā

verb