wordplay

noun
UK: /ˈwɜːd.pleɪ/
US: /ˈwɝːd.pleɪ/
  1. The clever and amusing use of words to create a humorous effect or convey a message in a witty way, often exploiting different meanings or sounds of words.

    1. The movie is full of wordplay that kids won't understand.
    2. The comedian's routine relied heavily on wordplay, puns, and double entendres to keep the audience laughing.
  2. A specific instance or example of the use of words in a clever and amusing way.

    1. That joke was a great example of wordplay.
    2. Shakespeare is famous for his skillful wordplay and intricate language in his plays and sonnets.
wordplay intransitive-verb
  1. To engage in the clever and amusing use of words.

    1. He likes to wordplay with his friends.
    2. The author wordplays throughout the novel, creating a playful and engaging reading experience for the audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "wordplay" in English means: The clever and amusing use of words to create a humorous effect or convey a message in a witty way, often exploiting different meanings or sounds of words., A specific instance or example of the use of words in a clever and amusing way..

The phonetic transcription of "wordplay" is /ˈwɜːd.pleɪ/ in British English and /ˈwɝːd.pleɪ/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "wordplay": rhetoric, paronomasia, banter, wit, pun.

Example usage of "wordplay": "The movie is full of wordplay that kids won't understand.". More examples on the page.