Word Adverb
playfully
adv.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈpɫeɪfəɫi/ UK /plˈeɪfəli/ play·ful·ly
Definition
adv.in a way that is fun, light-hearted, and not serious. You use this to describe someone who is joking or teasing without being mean.
adv.in a manner that is lighthearted, humorous, or teasing. Often describes behavior that is intended to be harmless and enjoyable.
Examples
“He playfully nudged her shoulder as they walked through the crowded street.”
“The actor delivered the lines playfully, using a light tone to contrast with the heavy themes of the play's final act.”
Real-world usage
“But Lord, now the studio's creative director, still comes into the office and playfully reshapes Morph while chatting.”
Etymology
From playful + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated