playful /ˈpleɪfl̩/ adjective4 •Enjoying play; sportive; prone to playing frequently, in the manner of a child or young pet (viz. puppy or kitten).Actually, we are pretty playful in our romantic life. •Funny; humorous; jesty; frolicsome; frisky.John is a playful fellow.A party hat is a playful conical hat people wear at parties. •Fun; recreational; unserious.A brainteaser is a playful puzzle posed as a test of intelligence. •Experimental.He was a rather playful artist. formsmore playful · playfuller · most playful · playfullest