interplay

noun

in·​ter·​play ˈin-tər-ˌplā How to pronounce interplay (audio)
: interaction
the interplay of opposing forces
interplay intransitive verb

Examples of interplay in a Sentence

the interplay between the old and the new enjoys the interplay of three very different flavors
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.
In the work published Monday in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers describe the complicated interplay between the primates’ social lives and their health. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 May 2025 In my experience, understanding the interplay between these two elements is crucial for both employees and employers seeking to maximize productivity and achieve organizational goals. Allbusiness, Forbes.com, 5 May 2025 The opener was clinical — the result of crisp interplay, yes, but also discipline. Colin Cerniglia, Charlotte Observer, 20 Apr. 2025 But this was a more technical side, based around slick passing and clever interplay in the final third. Michael Cox, New York Times, 20 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for interplay

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of interplay was in 1862

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Interplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interplay. Accessed 15 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

interplay

noun
in·​ter·​play ˈint-ər-ˌplā How to pronounce interplay (audio)
: mutual action or influence : interaction
interplay
ˌint-ər-ˈplā How to pronounce interplay (audio)
ˈint-ər-ˌplā
verb

More from Merriam-Webster on interplay

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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