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Definition of foreplay

foreplay

/ˈfɔːrˌpleɪ/
fore · play
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foreplay Lexical Profile

foreplay Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Sexual activity, such as kissing, caressing, or touching, that precedes and leads up to sexual intercourse.

Example

"Relationship counselors often emphasize the importance of communication and foreplay in maintaining physical intimacy."

2

Action or behavior that serves as a preliminary prelude or build-up to a main event or undertaking.

Example

"The polite small talk at the beginning of the meeting was merely corporate foreplay before the tough contract negotiations began."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

forensics
forepaw
foreperson
foreplay
forequarter
forerunner
foresee

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century from the prefix 'fore-' (before) and 'play', calculated as a direct translation of the German psychiatric term 'Vorspiel', which was popularized in English translations of Sigmund Freud's writings.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Foreplay. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/foreplay
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