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Meaning & use

playful

adjective·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˈpleɪfəl/
US/ˈpleɪfəl/

Meanings

  1. adjectivecomparable

    Liking to have fun and play games, often in a lively and cheerful way.

    Grammar: Works before a noun or after a verb: a playful puppy, the puppy is playful.

    Patterns

    • feel playful
    • a playful child

    The playful kittens chased each other around the sofa.

    She was in a playful mood and kept making silly faces.

    Their playful son hid behind the curtain and jumped out.

  2. adjectivecomparable

    Meant as a joke or to tease gently, with no wish to hurt or be serious.

    Grammar: Often describes actions or remarks: a playful nudge, a playful comment.

    Patterns

    • a playful tone
    • a playful remark

    He gave his sister a playful push on the shoulder.

    Her reply had a playful edge that made everyone laugh.

    The ad has a playful tone that appeals to young people.

Word forms

comparativemore playful
superlativemost playful

Common combinations

playful mood
The whole class was in a playful mood on the last day.
playful banter
Their playful banter made the long drive pass quickly.
playful puppy
A playful puppy tugged at my shoelace.
playful side
Few people at work have seen his playful side.
playful tone
The author writes in a playful tone.

Synonyms and how they differ

frisky
Frisky is used mostly for young animals or energetic people, and it stresses lively movement rather than humor.
mischievous
Mischievous adds a hint of naughtiness, whereas playful is usually harmless fun.
lighthearted
Lighthearted describes a relaxed, carefree attitude, while playful implies an active wish to joke or play.
jocular
Jocular is formal and applies mainly to speech or manner, and it suggests joking more than playing.

Opposites

serioussolemngrim

Word family

play verb
to take part in a game or fun activity
playfully adverb
in a fun or teasing way
playfulness noun
the quality of being playful
player noun
a person who plays a game or sport

Commonly confused: playful or childish?

playful vs childish

Childish is usually a criticism meaning silly or immature, while playful is a friendly word for lively fun.

Practice

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