outplay

verb

out·​play ˌau̇t-ˈplā How to pronounce outplay (audio)
outplayed; outplaying; outplays

transitive verb

: to play better than
especially : to outdo in playing a game
The Knicks took a 21-point lead in the first half, gave up 18 consecutive points in the third quarter, but outplayed the Kings down the stretch to win … The Times Union (Albany, New York)

Examples of outplay in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sunday’s victory for Team USA was nothing short of stunning given how Canada seemed to significantly outplay the Americans for most of the medal game. Chris Kudialis, Miami Herald, 23 Feb. 2026 The news comes at a critical time for a team trying to outplay its mediocre projections. Dan Hayes, New York Times, 17 Feb. 2026 His Seahawks units outplayed Rams counterparts in two critical late-season wins and scored another no-doubt victory in Super Bowl 60. Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Feb. 2026 However, it could be argued that Jackson has greatly outplayed his contract and deserves another extension. Mike Kaye february 10, Charlotte Observer, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for outplay

Word History

First Known Use

1702, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outplay was in 1702

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Cite this Entry

“Outplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outplay. Accessed 8 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

outplay

verb
out·​play
(ˈ)au̇t-ˈplā
: to play better than
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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