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.
Roselli believes the missing couple were victims of foul play. Faith Karimi, CNN Money, 6 Apr. 2025 The county coroner told The Denver Post that there were no signs of foul play. Emily Blackwood, People.com, 2 Apr. 2025 Autopsy results are pending, but the sheriff’s office does not suspect foul play, Linhardt said. David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 2025 No foul play is suspected, said Assistant Chief Timothy Pochran. Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 25 Mar. 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 22 Apr. 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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