playful

adjective

play·​ful ˈplā-fəl 

1

: full of play : frolicsome, sportive

a playful kitten

2

: humorous, jocular

playfully

ˈplā-fə-lē 

adverb

playfulness noun

Synonyms of playful

• amusing
• mischievous
• entertaining
• lively
• merry
• goofy
• frisky
• energetic
• sportive
• frolicsome
• antic
• happy
• delightful
• rollicking

Examples of playful in a Sentence

She's an old dog, but she's still very playful.

He had a playful expression on his face.

a playful tone of voice

You're certainly in a playful mood!

She gave him a light playful slap on the knee.

Recent Examples on the Web

Everywhere Belt Bag Large 2L Wearing this pastel pink Everywhere Belt Bag adds a soft, playful touch to any outfit. —Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 15 Jan. 2026

For users who want flexibility, the NuPhy Kick brings a playful approach that adapts from quiet work sessions to expressive gaming setups. —Matt Emma, USA Today, 14 Jan. 2026

For a playful take on the classic bob, pair it with a fun hair color, like platinum blonde or red. —Elise Tabin, InStyle, 14 Jan. 2026

Ganni and Disney have returned with the next round of their special-edition collaboration, introducing a 16-piece capsule starring Disney’s Daisy Duck and inspired by a playful comic book narrative that blends imaginative storytelling, Ganni‘s Danish heritage and Daisy Duck’s charm. —Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 14 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

playful

adjective

play·​ful ˈplā-fəl 

1

: full of play : fond of playing

a playful kitten

2

: humorous

a playful tone of voice

playfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

playfulness noun