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

Consider soft pastels for nurseries, chic neutrals for minimalist spaces, or bold colors for playful café curtains. — Nina Derwin, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2026

In the next slide, the lovebirds posed for a selfie together as Culkin looks at Song with a playful smile on his face. — Natalia Senanayake, PEOPLE, 14 Aug. 2026

The name refers to a male coming-of-age ritual, but the analog methods the duo used, in part, suggest a return to something past and playful, perhaps childlike—though the music shows maturation overall. — Vogue, 14 Aug. 2026

Mercury in your 3rd House of Communication sextiles Venus in your 5th House of Creativity, helping your words carry charm, humor, and playful timing. — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 13 Aug. 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