foul play

noun

Synonyms of foul playnext
: violence
especially : murder

Examples of foul play in a Sentence

There is no evidence of foul play. the coroner ruled that there was no evidence of foul play
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.
Officials did not release details regarding Asendorf’s cause of death, but previously stated that foul play was suspected. Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 8 Jan. 2026 The DeKalb Police Department said in its latest statement that there was no indication of foul play in Merritt’s death based on a preliminary investigation. David Chiu, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026 Police said there is currently no foul play suspected, and the investigation remains ongoing. Ciara McCarthy 5, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Jan. 2026 Police said there is currently no foul play suspected. Elissa Jorgensen, Dallas Morning News, 5 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for foul play

Word History

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of foul play was in 1546

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Foul play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foul%20play. Accessed 10 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

foul play

noun
: unfair dealing : dishonest conduct
especially : violence sense 1
a victim of foul play

More from Merriam-Webster on foul play

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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