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Intermediate Dictionary
     

play

 
pronunciation:
pleI
parts of speech:
noun, verb
features:
Word Builder, Word Explorer
part of speech: noun
definition 1: activity that is meant to relax or amuse.
The parents watched their children at play.
 
synonyms:
entertainment, game, merrymaking, recreation, sport
antonyms:
work
similar words:
diversion, fun, pastime, romp
definition 2: a story written to be acted on a stage; drama.
Our class put on a play for the whole school.
synonyms:
drama
similar words:
comedy, performance, show, skit, tragedy
definition 3: a specific action in a game.
He made a daring play in the last quarter of the football game.
synonyms:
move
similar words:
maneuver, save, score
 
part of speech: verb
inflections: plays, playing, played
definition 1: to act the part of in a drama.
She will play Cinderella in the school production.
 
synonyms:
enact, perform, portray
similar words:
depict, impersonate, represent
definition 2: to be active in a game or contest.
Let's play soccer.
 
synonyms:
compete in, participate in
similar words:
bow
definition 3: to make music with.
She loves to play the violin.
 
similar words:
perform
definition 4: to do things just to have fun.
The children played all day in the yard.
 
synonyms:
sport
similar words:
frolic, romp
definition 5: to behave in a certain way.
Watch out because he doesn't play fair.
synonyms:
conform
similar words:
behave, perform
derivations: playable (adj.), playlike (adj.)
Word Builder: play +
  • player:
    a person who plays a game.
  • playground:
    a space where people play.
  • playful:
    not serious; wanting to play and have fun.
  • playmate:
    a friend with whom you play.
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  art, communication, dog, energy, game, instrument, leisure, literature, music, pet, school, theater