playing field

noun

1
: a field for various games
especially : the part of a field officially marked off for play
2
: a set of conditions for competition
usually used in such phrases as a level playing field

Examples of playing field 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.
Step back and find an even playing field to make the relationship last. Lisa Stardust, Refinery29, 14 Oct. 2025 Newsom’s plan places gerrymandered maps on the November ballot, aiming to override the state’s independent redistricting commission and tilt the playing field toward Democrats until 2030. Duane Roberts, Oc Register, 11 Oct. 2025 Everything froze in time until the ball crashed against the foul pole and kicked back into the playing field, making the stadium sound like the old place across the street sounded in the dynastic nineties. Ian O'Connor, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025 Players are prohibited from discarding on the playing field any loose towels or other materials used for wiping hands and the football. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for playing field

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1584, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of playing field was circa 1584

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Playing field.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/playing%20field. Accessed 24 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

playing field

noun
: a field for various games
especially : the part of a field marked off for play
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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