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.
Newcomers looking to grasp the eclectic essence of Eurovision and its interplay of pop and politics should look no further than two of the fan favorites to emerge during a week that saw two semifinals ahead of the grand finale. Jill Lawless, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026 Students learn not just where to inject but why — the dynamic interplay of muscle, fat, bone and skin that changes with age. Tanya Akim, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026 Ferguson argues that a bathroom’s design, like any room in the home, should be an interplay of textures, colors, and materials that complement one another in a fresh way. Madeline Bilis, Architectural Digest, 7 May 2026 Questions and responses flow as a continuous interplay of thoughts instead of operating in abrupt pull-away dialogue boxes. Jeff Spry, Space.com, 6 May 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 17 May. 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

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