interplay

noun

in·​ter·​play ˈin-tər-ˌplā How to pronounce interplay (audio)
: interaction
the interplay of opposing forces
interplay intransitive verb

Examples of interplay in a Sentence

the interplay between the old and the new enjoys the interplay of three very different flavors
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
This hormonal interplay transitions relationships from early excitement to deep, enduring bonds, ensuring stability over time. Mark Travers, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 That was the interplay between Nick’s character and mine. Matt Webb Mitovich, TVLine, 21 Oct. 2024 The striking interplay of color in his large-scale canvases conveys the vividness of memory, both painful and beautiful. Okla Jones, Essence, 19 Oct. 2024 At this far-southern latitude, the interplay of light and cloud can be intense: the darks so very dark, the brights so very bright. Cullen Murphy, The Atlantic, 11 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for interplay 

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of interplay was in 1862

Dictionary Entries Near interplay

Cite this Entry

“Interplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interplay. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

interplay

noun
in·​ter·​play ˈint-ər-ˌplā How to pronounce interplay (audio)
: mutual action or influence : interaction
interplay
ˌint-ər-ˈplā How to pronounce interplay (audio)
ˈint-ər-ˌplā
verb

More from Merriam-Webster on interplay

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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