This paper looks at the important role of wordplay in the English language. It explains various types of wordplay that are in common use, and examines ways in which rhese wordplay forms can be introduced in the Japanes classroom. The paper suggests practical ideas foe classroom exercises, determines the suitability for defferent leves of learners, and comments on the social relevance of wordplay. The paper concludes that the teaching of English wordplay, although often overlooked, is worthwhile for a variety of reasons.