1
as in playing
to engage in activity for amusement
the cat toyed with the mouse it had caught, batting it about
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in flirting
to show a sexual attraction for someone just for fun
likes to toy with men whom she has no intention of actually dating
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for toying
Verb
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Baseball owners, with Dick Monfort playing a prominent role as a hawk in labor negotiations, are expected to lock out the players after this season, seeking a salary cap, believing that is the only reason the Dodgers win.—
Troy Renck,
Denver Post,
12 Feb. 2026 -
Back in 2013, Dodgers shortstop Hanley Ramirez tore a ligament in his thumb while playing for the Dominican Republic.—
Bill Plunkett,
Oc Register,
11 Feb. 2026
Verb
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The New York Giants running back is simultaneously building a streaming audience and flirting with a WWE career while putting up legitimate on-field stats.—
Ryan Brennan,
Miami Herald,
11 Feb. 2026
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Speaking of flirting, his romance with Natalie seems to be heating up.—
Brian Moylan,
Vulture,
11 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Those recreating in alpine environments should plan ahead and be prepared for ice, snow, high winds, and subzero temperatures.—
Jennifer McRae,
CBS News,
9 Feb. 2026
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The airline prides itself on recreating the feel-good coziness and charm of Austrian culture even at 30,000 feet.—
Condé Nast Traveler,
Condé Nast Traveler,
6 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Toying.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/toying. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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