swordplay

noun

sword·​play ˈsȯrd-ˌplā How to pronounce swordplay (audio)
1
: the art or skill of wielding a sword especially in fencing
2
: an exhibition of swordplay
swordplayer noun

Examples of swordplay in a Sentence

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 what is being described as a leading role, Abela will play one of the new characters, an immortal who is a teacher of swordplay and one of MacLeod’s past loves. Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 2 July 2025 Pair it with: Revolutionary Girl Utena for more shojo swordplay and camaraderie. Rafael Motamayor, Vulture, 4 June 2025 First there was Genshin Impact; then Black Myth: Wukong; next up is Lost Soul Aside, a third-person action game of brain-smoothing, balletic swordplay. Lewis Gordon, Vulture, 23 May 2025 Their desperate swordplay takes them racing up along a set of balconies above a tiled throne room. Helen Shaw, The New Yorker, 11 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for swordplay

Word History

First Known Use

1602, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of swordplay was in 1602

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Cite this Entry

“Swordplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/swordplay. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

swordplay

noun
sword·​play -ˌplā How to pronounce swordplay (audio)
: the art or skill of using a sword especially in fencing
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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