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 idea that the birds are dropping dead from foul play doesn’t sit right with some residents. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 May 2025 Related Stories Viral Eaglets Growing Up on Live Cam Die After Storm Blows Nest Away Illinois Authorities Suspect Avian Flu Outbreak Killed 200 Birds However, according to ABC News, officials have hinted at foul play after releasing the necropsy results of two deceased birds. Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 14 May 2025 Portugal’s National Cybersecurity Center on Monday dismissed speculation about foul play, saying that there was no sign that the outage resulted from a cyberattack. Suman Naishadham, Los Angeles Times, 29 Apr. 2025 An investigation is underway, but early findings suggest no signs of foul play, according to authorities. Jason Green, Mercury News, 29 Apr. 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 27 May. 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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