play on words

noun

1. a pun or the act of punning.

play on words

noun

1. another term for pun 1

Idioms and Phrases

A word or turn of phrase with a double meaning, a pun or other humorous use of language. For example, Shakespeare was a master at plays on words—his dramas are full of puns . [First half of 1700s]

Example Sentences

“The main baddies in the game were Kremlings,” Wise said, pointing out a play on words that, it is safe to say, went over the head of most 10-year-olds.

From New York Times

They have a cocktail there called the “Herb Your Enthusiasm,” a play on words to “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”

From Los Angeles Times

Carpenter sings about her paramour’s love making her talk nonsense, leading to a sexy play on words with haiku-type outros.

From Salon

Bach, who will step down as IOC president in 2025, said Paris 2024 had been "sensational, or dare I say, 'Seine-sational'" - a play on words referencing the river which flows through the host city.

From BBC

Whitmer became known as “that woman from Michigan,” a play on words Trump used to attack her in 2020.

From Seattle Times