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.
Given the circumstances, foul play is not suspected in his death, police said. Daniella Segura, Sacbee.com, 20 June 2025 The Pinal County Medical Examiner will determine the hiker's cause of death, but foul play is not suspected, AZ Family reported. Emily Mae Czachor, CBS News, 12 May 2025 The agency declined to release additional information and did not confirm Elway’s involvement or whether foul play is suspected, citing the ongoing investigation. Lauren Penington, Chicago Tribune, 30 Apr. 2025 Cops said foul play is not suspected in his disappearance. Joseph Wilkinson, New York Daily News, 28 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 30 Jun. 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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