General terms:
* Wordplay: This is a broad term encompassing any form of playful use of language, including puns, double entendres, alliteration, etc.
* Verbal wit: This refers to the clever and humorous use of language, often characterized by sharp and insightful remarks.
* Linguistic dexterity: This term emphasizes the skillful and creative manipulation of language, highlighting the author's mastery of words.
Specific techniques:
* Pun: A play on words, often using words with similar sounds but different meanings.
* Double entendre: A word or phrase that has two meanings, one of which is often suggestive or humorous.
* Alliteration: The repetition of initial consonant sounds in a phrase or sentence.
* Assonance: The repetition of vowel sounds within a phrase or sentence.
* Metaphor: A figure of speech that compares two unlike things without using "like" or "as."
* Simile: A figure of speech that compares two unlike things using "like" or "as."
* Personification: Giving human qualities to inanimate objects or abstract ideas.
The specific term you choose will depend on the specific technique being employed and the desired effect.
It's also worth noting that the act of "playing with words" can be used for various purposes in literature, such as:
* Humor: To create laughter and amusement.
* Emphasis: To draw attention to certain ideas or concepts.
* Social commentary: To critique societal norms or values.
* Aesthetic appeal: To create a sense of beauty or artistry.
Ultimately, understanding the specific techniques used and the intended effect is crucial for appreciating the full extent of the author's wordplay.