foul play

noun

Synonyms of foul playnext
: violence
especially : murder

Examples of foul play in a Sentence

There is no evidence of foul play. the coroner ruled that there was no evidence of foul play
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.
Authorities have not said whether foul play is suspected, and no manner of death has been determined. Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 22 June 2026 Police do not suspect foul play. ABC News, 21 June 2026 Green declined to say whether foul play was suspected in her disappearance. Tim Stelloh, NBC news, 20 June 2026 Authorities said there was no foul play involved. Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for foul play

Word History

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of foul play was in 1546

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Foul play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foul%20play. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

foul play

noun
: unfair dealing : dishonest conduct
especially : violence sense 1
a victim of foul play

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