Need another word for Playful? Use these synonyms of Playful from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
humorous
lighthearted
cheerful
jovial
merry
lively
spirited
frolicsome
mischievous
teasing
flirtatious
whimsical
fanciful
capricious
carefree
vivacious
buoyant
effervescent
ebullient
lively
sprightly
perky
jaunty
airy
jocular
waggish
roguish
bantering
jesting
joshing
kidding
sportive
recreative
diverting
entertaining
amusing
comical
hilarious
side-splitting
riotous
humorous
droll
witty
clever
quick-witted
facetious
tongue-in-cheek
ironic
sardonic
wry
dry
sarcastic
ironic
quizzical
perplexing
enigmatic
mysterious
baffling
puzzling
Meaning of Playful
The primary meaning of "playful" is having or showing a cheerful and lighthearted nature, often in a humorous or mischievous way.
Definitions
- Having a cheerful and lighthearted nature, often in a humorous or mischievous way
- Not meant to be taken seriously, often in a joking or teasing manner
- Engaging in an activity for enjoyment or recreation, rather than for a serious or practical purpose
Etymology of Playful
The word "playful" originates from the Old English word "plegan", meaning "to play" or "to exercise", and the suffix "-ful", which forms an adjective indicating a quality or characteristic
The word has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe a lighthearted or humorous attitude or behavior
Example Uses
- The playful puppy chased its tail with abandon, bringing joy to all who watched
- Her playful sense of humor made her a favorite among her friends and colleagues
- The playful banter between the two actors added a lighthearted touch to the otherwise serious drama
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
serious
solemn
somber
gloomy
glum
sullen
morose
melancholy
mournful
dismal
dreary
dull
tedious
boring
monotonous
uninteresting
humorless
stern
austere
severe
rigid
strict
formal
stiff
staid
sedate
grave
solemn
subdued
restrained
reserved
aloof
distant
cold
unfriendly
hostile
aggressive
confrontational