Definitions

playful

[pley-fuhl] / ˈpleɪ fəl /

ADJECTIVE

funny, fun-loving

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cheerful comical flirtatious frisky good-natured impish joking lighthearted lively mischievous spirited sprightly tongue-in-cheek whimsical

WEAK

antic blithe coltish elvish feeling one's oats frolicsome full of pep gamesome gay jaunty jesting jocund joyous merry mirthful prankish puckish rollicking snappy sportive teasing vivacious waggish zippy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

apathetic behaved depressed dispirited grave inactive lazy lethargic lifeless sad serious unhappy

WEAK

humorless working

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Mr. Picton’s playful spirit renders the complexity approachable.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

She has opened two community libraries and has a playful scheme, where she places books in unexpected spaces, from barbershops to takeaways - and plans to expand on this work.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

The resulting single is playful and defiant — the perfect combination for a song of the summer.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

With tunic silhouettes, collars, ruffles, plaid and stripes, the pieces are a new playful summer uniform.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

He chuckled and gave Beto a playful shove.

From "Out of Darkness" by Ashley Hope Pérez

Vocabulary lists containing playful

In the Mood? 100 Words to Describe Emotions

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 6

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Tone and Point of View, List 2

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!