play up

verb

played up; playing up; plays up

Examples of play up in a Sentence

that TV news program plays up sensational stories just to get higher ratings
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.
The natural movement of wavy and curly hair can also play up the cut’s textured, undone vibe, Timperley notes. Fiona Embleton, Glamour, 3 Sep. 2025 The best collaborations should elevate both parties, playing up each partner’s respective strengths and combining for a product that brings new consumers to the fold. Riley Jones, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2025 Pagliocca had a vision for the 2025 team — a group that could sling 3-pointers and play up-tempo offense while running through Reese and Kamilla Cardoso on both ends of the court. Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 3 Sep. 2025 Slugger Aaron Judge has turned his play up to a new level, and he's been the vocal leader of the team, as expected. Zach Pressnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for play up

Word History

First Known Use

1814, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of play up was in 1814

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Play up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/play%20up. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

play up

verb

More from Merriam-Webster on play up

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!