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.
While authorities are quick to rule the fatal gunshot wound self-inflicted, and some speculate that the article drove Dale to suicide, Lee knows enough about the Washbergs to suspect foul play. Judy Berman, Time, 23 Sep. 2025 The service told the outlet that no foul play is suspected, and the cause of death is currently under investigation. Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 23 Sep. 2025 Uvalde Police Chief Homer Delgado previously said that there was no indication of foul play. Jillian Frankel, PEOPLE, 23 Sep. 2025 Two missing elk hunters found dead this week in southern Colorado had no visible injuries or initial signs of foul play, the Conejos County coroner told Denver7 Friday. Oscar Contreras, Denver Post, 19 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 30 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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