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.
He is believed to have been alone at the time of the incident, and no foul play is suspected based on preliminary findings, according to the release. Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 9 Feb. 2026 The young woman is believed to have died from natural causes, and foul play is not suspected. Jami Ganz, Mercury News, 6 Feb. 2026 Based on the investigation so far, police said there is no indication of foul play. Dan Raby, CBS News, 6 Feb. 2026 Police said there is no indication of foul play. Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 6 Feb. 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 11 Feb. 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

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