interplay

noun

in·​ter·​play ˈin-tər-ˌplā How to pronounce interplay (audio)
: interaction
the interplay of opposing forces
interplay intransitive verb

Examples of interplay in a Sentence

the interplay between the old and the new enjoys the interplay of three very different flavors
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.
Critics loved how this interplay with extended family members highlights themes of generational tension, gender expectations and tradition in Thai-Chinese households. Travis Bean, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025 The interplay of small size and brachycephalic shape creates a behavioral trade-off: small size tends to increase excitability and attention-seeking, while brachycephaly tends to promote calmness and dependence. New Atlas, 7 Aug. 2025 This interplay between species led to an explosion in oceanic diversity. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 6 Aug. 2025 What remains, in Bloom’s telling, is less the memory of cards or cash than the spectacle itself—the interplay of aspiration and appetite. Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 4 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for interplay

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of interplay was in 1862

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Interplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interplay. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

interplay

noun
in·​ter·​play ˈint-ər-ˌplā How to pronounce interplay (audio)
: mutual action or influence : interaction
interplay
ˌint-ər-ˈplā How to pronounce interplay (audio)
ˈint-ər-ˌplā
verb

More from Merriam-Webster on interplay

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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