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.
These future tests could help uncover space-time fluctuations predicted by some quantum gravity models and shed light on the interplay between dark matter, vacuum energy, and gravitational fields. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 10 Oct. 2025 The interplay of environmental factors The environment plays a profound role in regulating the development, maintenance and functions of Treg cells. Mitzi Nagarkatti, The Conversation, 10 Oct. 2025 In contrast, effective interplay between James McClean, Doyle and O’Brien down the left was minimal, allowing QPR to dominate that flank, particularly during a first half when Harvey Vale and Rumarn Burrell caused havoc. Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2025 These clusters help astronomers study stellar evolution, star formation environments and the interplay between stars and interstellar gas and dust. Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 7 Oct. 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 13 Oct. 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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