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.
Here, travelers of all backgrounds—some privileged, some precarious—document the interplay between spatial movement and personal growth, collectively redrawing the boundaries of the genre. Literary Hub, 18 Feb. 2026 It was discovered that sharp human vision is formed during fetal development through a dynamic interplay between a vitamin A derivative (retinoic acid) and thyroid hormones. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 16 Feb. 2026 With bylines in several publications, Cierra writes about the interplay between art, style, and beauty, and social issues and behaviors. Cierra Black, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2026 Body Weight Being overweight or obese is another major risk factor—both for developing asthma and for the condition getting worse—but Gordon said the interplay is complex. Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 13 Feb. 2026 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 22 Feb. 2026.

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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