Toying

/ˈtɔɪ.ɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To handle or play with something in a casual or playful manner.

She was toying with a strand of her hair while listening to the lecture.

To treat something or someone without serious intention; to manipulate or play with ideas or feelings.

He was just toying with the idea of moving to another city.

To engage in playful or flirtatious behavior.

They were toying with each other’s affections, not taking their relationship seriously.

From the word 'toy', which originates from Middle English 'toye', meaning 'a thing, a trifle'.

toying with someone's emotions

to handle or treat someone's feelings carelessly or deceitfully.

toying around

engaging in playful or silly activities.

toy

an object for children to play with; a plaything.

play

engage in activity for enjoyment and recreation.

fiddle

to move something around in an aimless way.

messing around

Stop toying with that; you're just messing around.

playing games

She felt like he was just toying with her emotions, playing games instead of being honest.