Playfulness: meaning, definitions and examples

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playfulness

 

[ ˈpleɪ.fʊl.nəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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.

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Word Description / Examples
playfulness

When someone is acting in a light-hearted, lively, and fun manner, typically in a way that is free from serious intentions.

  • Her playfulness made the party a memorable event; The children’s playfulness brought smiles to everyone’s faces
liveliness

Indicating a vibrant, energetic quality in behavior or atmosphere. It can describe both people and events.

  • The liveliness of the concert made it an unforgettable experience; His liveliness in the classroom inspires the students to participate
mischief

Describing behavior that causes minor trouble or annoyance in a playful way. Often has a slightly negative connotation.

  • The puppy's mischief included chewing on shoes and knocking over plants; Her mischievous smile suggested she was up to something
fun-loving

Referring to a person who enjoys having fun and seeks out enjoyable activities. Often used to describe someone's personality.

  • She is a fun-loving person who always knows how to have a good time; We are looking for a fun-loving roommate to join our group
frolicsomeness

Describing behavior that is merry and full of playful, lively actions. Often used in a poetic or literary context.

  • The frolicsomeness of the spring lambs in the meadow was a joyful sight; His frolicsomeness was evident as he danced around the room

Examples of usage

  • Her playfulness made her the life of the party.
  • The children's playfulness was contagious, spreading joy to everyone around them.
Context #2 | Noun

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?

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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.

  • The playfulness of the puppy brought joy to everyone around
  • His playfulness in class often made lessons more enjoyable
whimsicality

Use when describing something fanciful, quirky, or unpredictable. It is usually positive and adds a charming or imaginative tone.

  • The whimsicality of the artist's work attracted many visitors
  • Her whimsicality in storytelling makes her very popular among children
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.

  • His jesting about her cooking was taken in good spirit
  • They spend a lot of time jesting and it lightens the mood at work
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.

  • Her humorousness always makes social gatherings lively
  • The humorousness in his writing keeps readers engaged
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.

  • His wit makes him a favorite in any conversation
  • She impressed everyone with her sharp wit during the debate

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.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,424, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.