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.
Along with the running debate over the Fed-economy interplay, the bull-bear argument over the fundaments of the AI-investment blitz will simply be with us indefinitely. Michael Santoli, CNBC, 15 Nov. 2025 While the ruling is not binding on other cases Kalshi is litigating, which largely pertain to the interplay between laws in other states and the Commodity Exchange Act, Kalshi can cite Corley’s favorable analysis as persuasive authority in other cases. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 14 Nov. 2025 These companies’ climate decisions are driven by a complex interplay of pressures from existing and future laws and the need to earn goodwill with employees, customers, investors, regulators and others. Lily Hsueh, The Conversation, 13 Nov. 2025 The interplay of rhythm guitarist Chris Freeman and lead Ryan Malicsi was impressive, with fast riffing and tapping that evoked midwest emo heroes like American Football. William Earl, Variety, 12 Nov. 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 19 Nov. 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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