wordplay

noun

word·​play ˈwərd-ˌplā How to pronounce wordplay (audio)
: playful use of words : verbal wit

Examples of wordplay in a Sentence

Oscar Wilde was famous for his witty wordplay.
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.
However, the puzzles are rarely straightforward, using homophones and wordplay, among other techniques, to keep players challenged. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024 In the series, the mischievous Cat and his sidekick, the ever-cautious Fish, strike out on kooky adventures that feature alphabet song sing-a-longs, tremendous tongue-twisters, and wondrous wordplay. Spenser Mestel, The Hollywood Reporter, 9 Dec. 2024 But his lyrics are just as essential — his trademark wordplay and attention to detail deepen the characters and propel the story forward. Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 28 Nov. 2024 The puzzles are rarely straightforward, using homophones and wordplay, among other techniques, to keep players challenged. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 30 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for wordplay 

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wordplay was in 1794

Dictionary Entries Near wordplay

Cite this Entry

“Wordplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wordplay. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

wordplay

noun
word·​play ˈwərd-ˌplā How to pronounce wordplay (audio)
: wit that is based on the clever use of words

More from Merriam-Webster on wordplay

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!