plaything

noun

play·​thing ˈplā-ˌthiŋ 

1

: toy sense 1

2

: toy sense 3

Examples of plaything in a Sentence

VCRs were once the expensive, high-tech playthings of the rich.

We mustn't let the environment become the plaything of oil companies.

The emperor used people as his playthings.

Recent Examples on the Web

Even though the modern orchestra originated three centuries ago as a plaything of princes, there has always been an implicit connection — and tension — between orchestras and democracy. — Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026

And most of us are tired of paying for the playthings of millionaires and billionaires. — Chicago Tribune, 28 Oct. 2026

But what Reynolds doesn’t account for is that the stubborn, strong-willed Alma will not be tossed aside like some tired plaything. — Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 1 Sep. 2026

Florida’s Constitution is not meant to be a political plaything, dangled as ballot bait and larded with misleading promises. — Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1674, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for plaything

• bowstring
• coiling
• downswing
• drawstring
• forewing
• hamstring
• lapwing
• mainspring
• offspring
• shoestring
• texting
• upswing

Kids Definition

plaything

noun

play·​thing -ˌthiŋ 

: toy entry 1 sense 2