Playfulness: meaning, definitions and examples
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playfulness
[ ˈpleɪ.fʊl.nəs ]
in behavior
The quality of being full of fun and light-hearted amusement; the tendency to play rather than be serious.
Synonyms
frolicsomeness, fun-loving, liveliness, mischief.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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playfulness |
When someone is acting in a light-hearted, lively, and fun manner, typically in a way that is free from serious intentions.
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liveliness |
Indicating a vibrant, energetic quality in behavior or atmosphere. It can describe both people and events.
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mischief |
Describing behavior that causes minor trouble or annoyance in a playful way. Often has a slightly negative connotation.
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fun-loving |
Referring to a person who enjoys having fun and seeks out enjoyable activities. Often used to describe someone's personality.
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frolicsomeness |
Describing behavior that is merry and full of playful, lively actions. Often used in a poetic or literary context.
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Examples of usage
- Her playfulness made her the life of the party.
- The children's playfulness was contagious, spreading joy to everyone around them.
in speech or action
The quality of being light-hearted and humorous in one's speech or actions.
Synonyms
humorousness, jesting, whimsicality, wit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
playfulness |
Use when referring to a light-hearted, joyful attitude that often involves fun and games. It is generally positive and informal.
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whimsicality |
Use when describing something fanciful, quirky, or unpredictable. It is usually positive and adds a charming or imaginative tone.
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jesting |
Use when talking about joking or playful remarks, often in a teasing manner. It is typically informal and can sometimes have a mildly negative connotation if taken too far.
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humorousness |
Use when describing the quality or state of being funny or making others laugh. This is usually positive and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
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wit |
Use when referring to the ability to think quickly and make clever or humorous remarks. It is generally positive and can be both formal and informal.
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Examples of usage
- His playfulness in the classroom made the lessons more engaging.
- The comedian's playfulness on stage charmed the audience.
Translations
Translations of the word "playfulness" in other languages:
🇵🇹 brincadeira
🇮🇳 खिलंदड़ापन
🇩🇪 Verspieltheit
🇮🇩 keceriaan
🇺🇦 грайливість
🇵🇱 figlarność
🇯🇵 遊び心 (asobigokoro)
🇫🇷 espièglerie
🇪🇸 juguetonería
🇹🇷 oyunculuk
🇰🇷 장난기 (jangnan-gi)
🇸🇦 مرحة (maraha)
🇨🇿 hravost
🇸🇰 hravosť
🇨🇳 顽皮 (wánpí)
🇸🇮 igrivost
🇮🇸 léttleiki
🇰🇿 ойыншылдық
🇬🇪 მოთამაშეობა (mot'amasheoba)
🇦🇿 oyunçuluq
🇲🇽 juguetonería
Etymology
The word 'playfulness' originated from the Middle English 'playful' meaning full of fun or jest. It is derived from the Old English word 'plegful' which meant playful and frolicsome. The concept of playfulness has been associated with joy, light-heartedness, and a carefree attitude throughout history.
See also: downplay, interplay, misplay, outplay, outplayed, overplay, play, playback, playboy, player, players, playful, playfully, playground, playhouse, playing, playlist, playoff, plays, plaything, playtime, playwright, playwrights, teleplay.