playpen

noun

play·​pen ˈplā-ˌpen How to pronounce playpen (audio)
: a portable usually collapsible enclosure in which a baby or young child may play

called also play yard

Examples of playpen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Right in the middle of my front room is a tent and a playpen. — Chicago Tribune, 21 June 2026 This wooden playpen makes that task a lot easier, with its ability to make any small apartment corner or open living area a prime play space. — Devonne Goode, Parents, 7 Apr. 2026 Disassemble things like car seats and playpens, and recycle parts by material. — Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 13 June 2026 Secondly, gear like strollers, car seats, and playpens not only occupy a lot of space, but metal parts can tarnish if subjected to humidity. — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for playpen

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of playpen was in 1902

Rhymes for playpen

See All Rhymes for playpen

Browse Nearby Words

play-party
playpen
playpipe
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Playpen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/playpen. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

playpen

noun
play·​pen ˈplā-ˌpen How to pronounce playpen (audio)
: a portable enclosure in which a baby or young child is placed to play

More from Merriam-Webster on playpen

Nglish: Translation of playpen for Spanish Speakers

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