play the role

phrase

: to act the part of (a particular character) in a film, play, etc.

He often plays the role of the villain.

—often used figuratively

He was playing the role of (the) gracious host.

Examples of play the role in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Simmons didn’t play the role in 2012’s The Amazing Spider-Man, which rebooted the franchise with Andrew Garfield at the superhero, or its sequel. — Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 10 July 2026

Polo will play the role of Margaret, Beau’s lieutenant in his cult operation, and who also connects to Jamie’s plight. — Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 2 July 2026

Rhymes for play the role

• amphibole
• asystole
• buttonhole
• casserole
• centriole
• decontrol
• glycerol
• metropole
• monopole
• multipole
• omeprazole
• oriole