Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for playful. Search instead for playfuln.
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.

I’m never going to let you think that Rocky isn’t real, because I want this relationship to feel as playful and as dynamic as possible.’”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

There is playful debate over who does more nappies.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

In South Korea, a playful green cartoon dinosaur named Dooly, known for the two small tufts of hair on his head, has been a favorite for generations.

From Science Daily • Apr. 1, 2026

Sokolov’s eye for visual flair brings some much-needed panache to this well-worn formula, but even his playful directorial spirit isn’t enough to shake the feeling that one has seen this film before.

From Salon • Mar. 29, 2026

Richard’s temperament made it easier—he was a happy kid, always dancing and singing, playful and silly.

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater