play

A1
Pronunciation
/pleɪ/
Noun
15 definition(s)
1 Definition

Activity for amusement only, especially among the young.

Example Sentences
  • Children learn through play.
2 Definition

Similar activity in young animals, as they explore their environment and learn new skills.

Example Sentences
  • This kind of play helps the young lion cubs develop their hunting skills.
3 Definition

The conduct, or course, of a game.

Example Sentences
  • After the rain break, play resumed at 3 o'clock.
4 Definition

An individual's performance in a sport or game.

Example Sentences
  • His play has improved a lot this season.
5 Definition

A short sequence of action within a game.

Example Sentences
  • That was a great play by the Mudchester Rovers forward.
6 Definition

(turn-based games) An action carried out when it is one's turn to play.

Synonyms
move
7 Definition

A literary composition, intended to be represented by actors impersonating the characters and speaking the dialogue.

Synonyms
drama
Example Sentences
  • This book contains all of Shakespeare's plays.
8 Definition

A theatrical performance featuring actors.

Example Sentences
  • We saw a two-act play in the theatre.
9 Definition

A major move by a business or investor.

Example Sentences
  • ABC Widgets makes a play in the bicycle market with its bid to take over Acme Sprockets.
10 Definition

A geological formation that contains an accumulation or prospect of hydrocarbons or other resources.

11 Definition

The extent to which a part of a mechanism can move freely.

Example Sentences
  • No wonder the fanbelt is slipping: there’s too much play in it.
12 Definition

Sexual activity or sexual role-playing.

13 Definition

An instance of watching or listening to digital media.

Synonyms
listen view
14 Definition

A button that, when pressed, causes media to be played.

15 Definition

(now usually in compounds) Activity relating to martial combat or fighting.

Verb
11 definition(s)
1 Definition

To act in a manner such that one has fun; to engage in activities expressly for the purpose of recreation or entertainment.

Example Sentences
  • They played long and hard.
2 Definition

To perform in (a sport); to participate in (a game).

Example Sentences
  • He plays on three teams
3 Definition

To take part in amorous activity; to make love.

Synonyms
get it on have sex make out
4 Definition

To act as the indicated role, especially in a performance.

Example Sentences
  • He plays the King, and she's the Queen.
5 Definition

(heading) To produce music or theatre.

6 Definition

(heading) To behave in a particular way.

7 Definition

To move in any manner; especially, to move regularly with alternate or reciprocating motion; to operate.

Example Sentences
  • He played the torch beam around the room.
8 Definition

To move to and fro.

9 Definition

To put in action or motion.

Example Sentences
  • to play a trump in a card game
10 Definition

To keep in play, as a hooked fish in order to land it.

11 Definition

To manipulate, deceive, or swindle someone.

Synonyms
defraud
Example Sentences
  • You played me!