foul play

noun

: 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.
The Macomb County Sheriff's Office said foul play is not suspected, but the investigation remains ongoing, writes Nour Rahal. Leah Olajide, Freep.com, 9 Sep. 2025 Meanwhile, Mabel is checking out the security footage, which, despite Howard’s assessment, doesn’t rule out foul play. Tom Smyth, Vulture, 9 Sep. 2025 Despite clear signs of foul play, the medical examiner does not classify it as a homicide. Allison Degrushe, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Sep. 2025 There were no signs of foul play, police said in a statement. Chris Ramirez, jsonline.com, 4 Sep. 2025 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 11 Sep. 2025.

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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