adj
playful
PLAYFL
adj
1
Fond of play; lighthearted and full of fun, like a young animal or child.
"The puppy gave her a playful nudge with its nose."
"He has a playful sense of humour that puts everyone at ease."
2
Not meant seriously; done in a joking or teasing spirit.
"She gave him a playful jab about his terrible cooking."
How to Use Playful
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFull of fun and light teasing rather than seriousness.
Common pairings
playful banter
playful smile
playful mood
Word Forms
playfuller comparative, more playful comparative, playfullest superlative, most playful superlative
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The puppy gave her a _____ nudge with its nose.
Etymology
From Middle English pleiful — play plus the suffix -ful, "full of play."