play on words
A pun, or similar humorous use of language such as a double entendre.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The title of the book is a clever play on words.”
“The comedian used a funny play on words about gardening to make the audience laugh during his show.”
“The author frequently employed a subtle play on words throughout the novel, forcing the reader to consider the double meanings hidden within the dialogue.”
- 01
bad word
A vulgar word.
- 02
breathe a word
To divulge even part of a secret (usually used with a negative).
- 03
child's play
Something particularly easy or simple.
- 04
dicky
[Cockney slang]word
- 05
dirty word
The name of a topic that a person prefers not to hear or discuss.
- 06
empty words
Any type of talk with little meaning; a message that seems to contain meaningful content but is actually vapid.
- 07
from the word go
From the very beginning; from the outset; immediately upon starting.
- 08
get the word out
To make some information more widely known.
Last updated August 10, 2026