foul play

noun

Synonyms of foul playnext
: violence
especially : murder

Synonyms of foul play

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Examples of foul play in a Sentence

There is no evidence of foul play. the coroner ruled that there was no evidence of foul play
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In other words, Gabe is a lot more attuned to the adult world’s foul play than his mother might be willing to admit. — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2026 With no evidence of a crime or foul play, authorities could not move against Zelich, and the case stalled. — ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026 Authorities are still working to figure out whether foul play was involved. — Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026 Police did not find any signs of foul play, officials said last weekend. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for foul play

Word History

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of foul play was in 1546

Rhymes for foul play

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Browse Nearby Words

foul out
foul play
foul shot
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Cite this Entry

“Foul play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foul%20play. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

foul play

noun
: unfair dealing : dishonest conduct
especially : violence sense 1
a victim of foul play
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