an object for children to play with, something that is used for amusement rather than for serious purposes

play with someone like a toy, throw toys out of the pram, have all the toys

toy with something, toy boy, toy poodle

Formal and Informal Expressions of toy

In different contexts, you can replace 'toy' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'plaything, diversion' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'plaything, thing' is a commonplace synonym.

toy: Explore its Definition & Usage

toy Definition

1an object for children to play with
2something that is used for amusement rather than for serious purposes

Using toy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "toy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He loves playing with his toy cars.
Example
She gave her dog a new toy to play with.
Example
The drone is not a toy and should be used responsibly.
Example
The company uses virtual reality as a toy for its employees.

toy Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for toy

Antonyms for toy

Idioms Using toy

play with someone like a toy
to treat someone in a way that is not respectful or fair, often for one's own amusement
Example
He played with her like a toy, leading her on and then breaking her heart.
throw toys out of the pram
to react in an angry or childish way when things do not go as planned
Example
He threw his toys out of the pram when he found out he didn't get the promotion.
have all the toys
to have all the advantages or resources in a particular situation
Example
The big companies have all the toys, leaving small businesses struggling to compete.

Phrases with toy

toy with something
to consider or think about something without making a decision or taking action
Example
I've been toying with the idea of quitting my job and traveling around the world.
toy boy
a young man who has a romantic relationship with an older woman
Example
She's dating a toy boy who is half her age.
toy poodle
a small breed of dog that is often kept as a pet
Example
Her toy poodle is very cute and friendly.

Origins of toy

from Old English 'tæppe', meaning 'tool'

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Summary: toy in Brief

The term 'toy' [tɔɪ] refers to objects used for amusement, particularly for children. It can also refer to something used for entertainment rather than serious purposes, as in 'The company uses virtual reality as a toy for its employees.' The phrase 'toy with something' means to consider or think about something without making a decision or taking action, while 'play with someone like a toy' means to treat someone unfairly or disrespectfully. 'Toy' can also be used in idioms like 'throw toys out of the pram,' which means to react angrily or childishly, and 'have all the toys,' which means to have all the advantages or resources in a situation.