English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word play in English

What does play mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

play

US /pleɪ/
UK /pleɪ/
"play" picture

Verb

1.

engage in activity for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose

Example:
•
The children are playing in the park.
•
Let's play a game of chess.
Synonym:
amuse oneselfentertain oneselfrecreatefriskfrolic
2.

take part in a sport

Example:
•
He plays football every weekend.
•
She wants to play tennis professionally.
3.

perform (a dramatic role) in a play or movie

Example:
•
She will play the lead role in the new film.
•
He played Hamlet in the school production.
Synonym:
actperformportraydepictrepresent
4.

operate (a device) or make (a recording) produce sound or images

Example:
•
Can you play that song again?
•
The movie is about to play.
Synonym:
runoperateactivatestartperform

Noun

1.

a dramatic work for the stage or to be broadcast

Example:
•
We went to see a play at the theater.
•
The director is casting for a new play.
Synonym:
dramastage playtheatrical productionshowperformance
2.

activity for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose

Example:
•
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
•
The children need more time for free play.
Synonym:
recreationamusemententertainmentfunleisure
Learn This Word at Lingoland
Related Word:
play withplay onplay atplaying cardplay alongplug and playplaying field