toy: Meaning and Definition of

toy

Pronunciation: (toi), [key]
— n.
  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 pratical 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, esp. 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, esp. of 16th or 17th century England, written for the virginal.
    1. amorous dallying.
    2. a playful or amusing act; diversion; pastime.
—adj.
  1. made or designed for use as a toy: a toy gun.
  2. of or resembling a toy, esp. diminutive in size.
—v.i.
  1. to amuse oneself; play.
  2. to act idly; or with indifference; trifle: to toy with one's food.
  3. to dally amorously; flirt.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
See also:
  • toy (Thesaurus)