playpen

noun

play·​pen ˈplā-ˌpen How to pronounce playpen (audio)
: a portable usually collapsible enclosure in which a baby or young child may play

called also play yard

Examples of playpen in a Sentence

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.
Simon called 911 the morning of Oct. 5, 2022, to report her son was missing from his indoor playpen at their home outside Savannah. CBS News, 15 Oct. 2024 On his third attempt of trying to escape, including being gently nudged by his mom, RZA heads straight for his cup on the floor and walks back in the direction of the playpen. Charna Flam, People.com, 28 Sep. 2024 The film is now in limited release, and a very proud LaBelle is all too happy to reflect on a project that felt like Christmas, summer camp, and (yes) a giant hamster playpen, all in one. Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 2 Oct. 2024 In the Friday, Sept. 27, video, her toddler tries — and eventually succeeds — escaping his playpen as his mother films him. Charna Flam, People.com, 28 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for playpen 

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of playpen was in 1902

Dictionary Entries Near playpen

Cite this Entry

“Playpen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/playpen. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

playpen

noun
play·​pen ˈplā-ˌpen How to pronounce playpen (audio)
: a portable enclosure in which a baby or young child is placed to play

More from Merriam-Webster on playpen

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