Main Entry:

¹play

Pronunciation:

\ˈplā\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English, from Old English plega; akin to Old English plegan to play, Middle Dutch pleyen

Date:

before 12th century

1 a: swordplay barchaic : game, sport c: the conduct, course, or action of a game d: a particular act or maneuver in a game: as (1): the action during an attempt to advance the ball in football (2): the action in which a player is put out in baseball e: the action in which cards are played after bidding in a card game f: the moving of a piece in a board game (as chess) g: one's turn in a game <it's your play>2 aobsolete : sexual intercourse b: amorous flirtation : dalliance3 a: recreational activity ; especially : the spontaneous activity of children b: absence of serious or harmful intent : jest <said it in play> c: the act or an instance of playing on words or speech sounds d: gaming, gambling4 a (1): an act, way, or manner of proceeding : maneuver <that was a play to get your fingerprints — Erle Stanley Gardner> (2): deal, venture b (1): the state of being active, operative, or relevant <other motives surely come into play — M. R. Cohen> <several issues are at play> (2): brisk, fitful, or light movement <the gem presented a dazzling play of colors> (3): free or unimpeded motion (as of a part of a machine) ; also : the length or measure of such motion (4): scope or opportunity for action (5): a function of an electronic device that causes a recording to play5: emphasis or publicity especially in the news media <wished the country received a better play in the American press — Hugh MacLennan>6: a move or series of moves calculated to arouse friendly feelings —usually used with make<made a big play for the girl — Will Herman>7 a: the stage representation of an action or story b: a dramatic composition : drama

synonyms see fun

— in play

: in condition or position to be legitimately played

— out of play

: not in play