Toy

A toy is an object used primarily for play, most often by children, though toys are also used by adults and animals.

A toy is an object used primarily for play, most often by children, though toys are also used by adults and animals. Toys range from simple handmade objects to complex mechanical and electronic devices, and the category includes both purpose-made playthings and ordinary objects used imaginatively in play. Toys have existed since the remote past and are found in many cultures.

Definition

A toy is generally defined as an object intended to be played with, especially by children. Dictionaries and encyclopedias also note broader uses of the word for objects that provide amusement or entertainment beyond practical necessity.

History

Toys and playthings have been documented from antiquity and across many societies. According to Britannica, balls, kites, and yo-yos are often considered among the oldest objects specifically designed as toys.

Types and materials

Toys may be handmade or mass-produced and range from simple objects to elaborate mechanical and electronic devices. Common examples include dolls, blocks, balls, board games, and miniature vehicles. Common materials include wood, metal, plastic, fabric, and electronics.

Broader uses of the term

The word toy can also describe something small, decorative, or not taken seriously. It is used in terms such as toy dog breeds or as an adjective for miniature products.