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. intrusually foll bywith to play, fiddle, or flirt

Derived Forms

• ˈtoyless, adjective
• ˈtoyer, noun
• ˈtoyˌlike, adjective

Other Words From

• toyer noun
• toyless adjective
• toylike 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 depicts a girl who decides to send a present to a boy who is feeling lonely, a nod to the retailer's toy bank scheme.

From BBC

The Strong National Museum of Play which is home to the National Toy Hall of Fame announced Tuesday, Nov. 12, that the three toys, Transformers, My Little Pony and Phase 10 are 2024's inductees into the Hall of Fame.

From Salon

“But for My Little Pony, in particular, this year is extra validating. The beloved toy was a finalist seven times before finally crossing the finish line!”

From Salon

They've been a toy staple in households across the country and inspired the animated series "My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic," which became a pop culture phenomenon and inspired male fans known as "bronies."

From Salon

But sales to so-called kidults have grown, with one in five toys and games now bought by over-18s for themselves, according to toy industry research group Circana.

From BBC

Related Words

• doll
• plaything
• trinket