foul play

noun

: 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 in New England found a body behind a school in Massachusetts and are suspecting foul play, adding to the number of people found dead in the region since February. Adam Sabes, FOXNews.com, 2 May 2025 Users are encouraged to stream their games online so that there is clear video proof of foul play, and there are ways to report transgressions in the app. Dan Bernstein, Sportico.com, 30 Apr. 2025 At the time, authorities said no foul play was expected. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025 Her family previously objected to an autopsy for religious reasons, so the medical examiner limited the investigation to an external examination, as no foul play was suspected surrounding her death, the outlet reported. Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 16 Apr. 2025 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 15 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

foul play

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

More from Merriam-Webster on foul play

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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