as in mischief
a natural disposition for playful behavior
the playfulness of the kitten can be quite amusing
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of playfulness
Some parts of your curriculum might invite playfulness and bold new efforts, while others deserve more caution.
—
Justin Reich, The Conversation, 3 Oct. 2025
The mix also alludes to the sense of playfulness that defines the homeowners’ personalities.
—Jennifer Fernandez, Architectural Digest, 3 Oct. 2025
This is the House of pleasure, playfulness, creativity, and casual dating.
—Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2025
Shenhe Colorful Cardigan If your fall wardrobe leans neutral, this colorful striped cardigan is the easiest way to add playfulness without sacrificing comfort.
—Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 30 Sep. 2025
Juno’s shift into Sagittarius lands in your partnership sector, reigniting your desire for playfulness, honesty, and adventure in your relationships.
—Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 29 Sep. 2025
Max Mara also had a touch of playfulness that was surprising.
—Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
Hades became their magnum opus by adding just a dash of playfulness that borders on being twee.
—Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 27 Sep. 2025
The final range is a blend of Enriquez’s playfulness and Jardini’s lighthearted sophistication, expressed via bold patterns, flashy prints and vibrant colors.
—Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 23 Sep. 2025
Justin Reich, The Conversation, 3 Oct. 2025
The mix also alludes to the sense of playfulness that defines the homeowners’ personalities.
—Jennifer Fernandez, Architectural Digest, 3 Oct. 2025
This is the House of pleasure, playfulness, creativity, and casual dating.
—Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2025
Shenhe Colorful Cardigan If your fall wardrobe leans neutral, this colorful striped cardigan is the easiest way to add playfulness without sacrificing comfort.
—Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 30 Sep. 2025
Juno’s shift into Sagittarius lands in your partnership sector, reigniting your desire for playfulness, honesty, and adventure in your relationships.
—Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 29 Sep. 2025
Max Mara also had a touch of playfulness that was surprising.
—Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
Hades became their magnum opus by adding just a dash of playfulness that borders on being twee.
—Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 27 Sep. 2025
The final range is a blend of Enriquez’s playfulness and Jardini’s lighthearted sophistication, expressed via bold patterns, flashy prints and vibrant colors.
—Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 23 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for playfulness
Noun
-
Gossip fed the frenzy of the Salem Witch Trials and has been the subtext of one too many fables where mischief masks moral rot.—
Oriel FeldmanHall,
Time,
6 Oct. 2025
-
He was first arrested in 2012 in Palm Beach County, Florida, on charges of battery, improper exhibit of a firearm or dangerous weapon and criminal mischief, with only criminal mischief upheld.—
Brooke Taylor,
FOXNews.com,
1 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
Soon, the America’s Got Talent stage descended into pure chaos, with Cowell and Mandel showcasing their innate mischievousness before the latter turned his attention toward his fellow judges.—
Tyler Jenke,
Billboard,
6 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Playfulness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/playfulness. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share