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

His work is crisp, playful, and nostalgic, replicating the exact fonts and presentations of centuries-old stylings for businesses and public parks alike. — Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 21 Oct. 2026

The playful exchange took place against the backdrop of an important diplomatic visit. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Oct. 2026

Among millennials who’d done something playful in the past year, 92% spent money on it and 78% spent $100 or more. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 20 Oct. 2026

Embracing the playful energy of the runway, Nadin said a prayer before stepping out. — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 20 Oct. 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