toy

[toi]

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.

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

/ 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

verb

1. to play, fiddle, or flirt

Other Word Forms

• toyer noun
• toyless adjective
• toylike adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of toy¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of toy¹

C16 (in the sense: amorous dalliance): of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

It relies on donations, which it distributes to people in need, and it also sells toys, books and clothes at a reduced cost.

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Tariffs have pushed up the prices of goods, including imported toys, which may be “a problem” for many consumers, he said.

Read more on MarketWatch

Imported clothes, toys, electronics and other popular gifts had high tariffs.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

More than 150 million copies of the game have been sold around the world, according to toy manufacturer Hasbro, which bought Waddingtons 30 years ago.

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"The toy is delivered," a Ukrainian soldier whispers into the radio.

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Related Words

• fiddle 
• flirt 
• fool 
• tease