: a portable usually collapsible enclosure in which a baby or young child may play

called also play yard

Examples of playpen in a Sentence

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.
Remove them when possible, or use barriers, playpens or elevated stands to keep pets away. Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 July 2026 Remove hazardous plants when possible, or use barriers, playpens, leashes or elevated plant stands to keep pets away. Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 14 July 2026 Secondly, gear like strollers, car seats, and playpens not only occupy a lot of space, but metal parts can tarnish if subjected to humidity. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026 Right in the middle of my front room is a tent and a playpen. Chicago Tribune, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for playpen

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of playpen was in 1902

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Cite this Entry

“Playpen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/playpen. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

: a portable enclosure in which a baby or young child is placed to play

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