toy

American  

[toi] / tɔɪ /

noun

1. an object, often a small representation of something familiar, as an animal or person, for children or others to play with; plaything.

2. a thing or matter of little or no value or importance; a trifle.

3. something that serves for or as if for diversion, rather than for serious practical use.

4. a small article of little value but prized as a souvenir or for some other special reason; trinket; knickknack; bauble.

5. something diminutive, especially in comparison with like objects.

6. an animal of a breed or variety noted for smallness of size.

   The winning terrier at the dog show was a toy.

7. a close-fitting cap of linen or wool, with flaps coming down to the shoulders, formerly worn by women in Scotland.

8. a simple, light piece of music, especially of 16th or 17th century England, written for the virginal.

9. Obsolete.

   1. amorous dallying.

   2. a playful or amusing act; diversion; pastime.

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adjective

1. made or designed for use as a toy.

   a toy gun.

2. of or resembling a toy, especially diminutive in size.

verb (used without object)

1. to amuse oneself; play.

2. to act idly; or with indifference; trifle.

   to toy with one's food.

3. to dally amorously; flirt.

toy British  

/ tɔɪ /

noun

1. an object designed to be played with

2. 1. something that is a nonfunctioning replica of something else, esp a miniature one

   2. ( as modifier )

      a toy guitar

3. any small thing of little value; trifle

4. 1. something small or miniature, esp a miniature variety of a breed of dog

   2. ( as modifier )

      a toy poodle

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verb

1. to play, fiddle, or flirt

Other Word Forms

• toyer noun
• toyless adjective
• toylike adjective

Etymology

Origin of toy

1275–1325; Middle English toye dalliance; of obscure origin

Explanation

A toy is an object that's made for a child to play with. Your favorite childhood toy might have been a dollhouse, a stuffed animal, or a set of blocks. Some toys are specifically designed for play, like a small wooden train set or a baby's shape sorter. You can also make toys out of everyday objects and materials—a piece of paper can take the shape of a toy airplane, and a saucepan can become a toy drum. Very small dogs are another kind of toy, like a toy poodle. When you use it as a verb, toy means "move or handle absent-mindedly."

Example Sentences

Kamila Deavers, who led the project, became interested in lead exposure after her young daughter briefly showed elevated lead levels linked to toy coatings, before stricter regulations were introduced.

From Science Daily • Apr. 2, 2026

At least that’s what Rubino says; she’s putting a special stuffed toy in one basket she’s fashioning, alongside the socks and underwear.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

The toy and entertainment giant, Hasbro - which owns brands including Peppa Pig, Transformers and Monopoly - has been hacked.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

“Success in our toy business will drive success in entertainment, and success in entertainment will drive greater success in toys,” Chief Executive Ynon Kreiz, said in February.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

They love the game and he keeps hiding the toy from them and they try to get it away from him.

From "Woodsong" by Gary Paulsen

Related Words

• fiddle
• flirt
• fool
• tease