as in mischief
a natural disposition for playful behavior
the playfulness of the kitten can be quite amusing
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of playfulness
That spirit of playfulness extends beyond the story itself and into the book’s visual world.
—
Sarah Jones, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026
Somehow, the phone number in the matchbox has that surprise, that playfulness.
—Leonor C. Suárez, Rolling Stone, 8 Jan. 2026
The patterns and colors have this softness and playfulness to them that just works so effortlessly.
—Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 2 Jan. 2026
Indeed, allowing the fruits to breathe playfulness into your wintertime getups will be one of your best fashion decisions to date.
—Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 22 Dec. 2025
Inject some playfulness into your evening garb with a bold red halter dress or a floor-length dress with sleeves, which is ideal for indoor-outdoor winter gatherings.
—Kristina Rutkowski, Glamour, 10 Dec. 2025
This new hue is all about embracing playfulness, creativity, and freedom.
—Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Dec. 2025
Developed with Bell Media, the series embraces both playfulness and heart.
—Leo Barraclough, Variety, 1 Dec. 2025
To lean back into that playfulness, especially after the loss of Dave, feels very intentional to me.
—Mackenzie Cummings-Grady, Billboard, 20 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for playfulness
Noun
-
In this case, the cow’s curiosity (rather than any intent to cause mischief) created a memorable moment for both police and residents alike.—
-
In April 2018, Johnson was arrested for criminal mischief.—
Noun
-
Social media users can’t get enough of Chico’s antics, as many lauded his mischievousness.—
-
Soon, the America’s Got Talent stage descended into pure chaos, with Cowell and Mandel showcasing their innate mischievousness before the latter turned his attention toward his fellow judges.—
Cite this Entry
“Playfulness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/playfulness. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share