foul play

noun

: violence
especially : murder

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.
Police suspect foul play, but power was eventually restored at the festival, which has an independent power supply ready to go. Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 24 May 2025 The Sheriff’s Office said in a statement Thursday that detectives do not suspect foul play, pending an autopsy. Angie Dimichele, Sun Sentinel, 15 May 2025 Court documents previously obtained by USA TODAY also indicated possible foul play. Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 14 May 2025 In the new book, a toxic medical director dies of a heart attack, and fellow doctor Eitan Rose smells foul play. Rachel Flynn, People.com, 12 May 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Foul play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foul%20play. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

foul play

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

More from Merriam-Webster on foul play

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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