wordplay

noun

word·​play ˈwərd-ˌplā How to pronounce wordplay (audio)
Synonyms of wordplaynext
: playful use of words : verbal wit

Examples of wordplay in a Sentence

Oscar Wilde was famous for his witty wordplay.
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.
Beyond spectacles, Chinese New Year is incomplete without subtle wordplay. Denni Hu, Footwear News, 23 Jan. 2026 But Cash’s most original and engaging writing is slightly out of step with reality and bleakly funny, devoted to wordplay and willing to be foolish about it. Hannah Gold, New Yorker, 21 Jan. 2026 The song itself features high-energy beats and Rocky's classic wordplay. Daniela Avila, PEOPLE, 13 Jan. 2026 Many of her jokes relied heavily on wordplay, like one about how the Rock might win a Globe because The Paper wasn’t nominated, but even sweaty double entendres like this landed well because Glaser moved on so quickly that there was no time for groans. Hershal Pandya, Vulture, 13 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wordplay

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wordplay was in 1794

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Cite this Entry

“Wordplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wordplay. Accessed 29 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

wordplay

noun
word·​play ˈwərd-ˌplā How to pronounce wordplay (audio)
: wit that is based on the clever use of words

More from Merriam-Webster on wordplay

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