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 b archaic : 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 a obsolete : sexual intercourse b : amorous flirtation : dalliance
3 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, gambling
4 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 play
5 : 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