n. & v.
n. 1 a a plaything, esp. for a child. b (often attrib.) a model or miniature replica of a thing, esp. as a plaything (toy gun). 2 a a thing, esp. a gadget or instrument, regarded as providing amusement or pleasure. b a task or undertaking regarded in an unserious way. 3 (usu. attrib.) a diminutive breed or variety of dog etc.
v.intr. (usu. foll. by with) 1 trifle, amuse oneself, esp. with a person's affections; flirt (toyed with the idea of going to Africa). 2 a move a material object idly (toyed with her necklace). b nibble at food etc. unenthusiastically (toyed with a peach). toy-box a usu. wooden box for keeping toys in. toy boy colloq. a woman's much younger male lover. toy soldier 1 a miniature figure of a soldier. 2 sl. a soldier in a peacetime army.
[ 16th c.: earlier = dallying, fun, jest, whim, trifle: orig. unkn. ]