Playful

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈpleɪfl̩/

Definitions

1. Characterized by a lighthearted, fun-loving manner or displaying behavior that is not serious but intended for amusement
2. Exhibiting a joyful and spirited nature that embraces fun or engaging in activities that are merry and entertaining without seriousness
3. Conveying a sense of whimsy and enjoyment through lively actions or expressing a carefree attitude toward interaction and recreation

Etymology: "Playful" is a plain formation: the noun "play" with the suffix "-ful," which turns a noun into an adjective meaning "full of" or "characterised by" that thing. Its immediate ancestor is Middle English "pleiful," so the word was already being used in English during the medieval period, and the pattern behind it, attaching "-ful" to a noun to describe a quality, is one English used freely in the same era. The root "play" is the older and more interesting part. It comes from Old English "plega," meaning exercise, sport, or brisk movement, and it was not originally tied to children's games. Early English also used it for a contest or combat, which is why the word could describe both a schoolyard game and a bout of fighting. The adjective kept the broader sense of "full of play," so a playful thing is one that is full of this lively, unforced activity.

Synonyms: funny, jovial, mischievous, lively, frisky

Antonyms: serious, grave, sullen, dull, sedate