role-play

verb

ˈrōl-ˌplā How to pronounce role-play (audio)
-ˈplā
variants or less commonly roleplay
role-played also roleplayed; role-playing also roleplaying; role-plays also roleplays

transitive verb

1
: to act out the role of
2
: to represent in action
students were asked to role-play the thoughts and feelings of each characterR. G. Lambert

intransitive verb

: to play a role
role-play noun
or less commonly roleplay
plural role-plays also roleplays
I practice this with student social workers through case studies and role-play. Kevin Brazant, quoted in psychologytoday.com

Examples of role-play 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.
Hasbro, which owns the role-playing game Dungeon & Dragons, rose 2%. CBS News, 29 Nov. 2024 With 129 pieces, colorful mini-figures, and fun play features, this Lego Friends set encourages imaginative role-play and the entrepreneurial spirit. Jacquelyn Smith, Parents, 28 Nov. 2024 Buy one get one 50% off Disney princess dress up/role-play items. Mike Snider, USA TODAY, 28 Nov. 2024 Training for chaplains includes role-playing exercises on scenarios such as delivering death notifications, counseling colleagues with addiction issues, and assisting those grappling with survivor's guilt. Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for role-play 

Word History

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of role-play was in 1949

Dictionary Entries Near role-play

Cite this Entry

“Role-play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/role-play. Accessed 9 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

role-play

verb
ˈrōl-ˌplā,
-ˈplā
: to act out the role of
role-play an interviewer

Medical Definition

role-play

transitive verb

intransitive verb

: to play a role

More from Merriam-Webster on role-play

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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