play

//pleɪ//
A1Frequency Level 2Neutral
Visual representation of play

Verb

playInfinitive
playPresent tense
playedPast tense
playedPast participle
playingPresent participle
playsThird-person singular
1

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

The children play in the park every afternoon.

2

To take part in (a sport or game).

I play soccer every weekend.

3

To perform on (a musical instrument).

She plays the piano every day.

4

To perform (a role) in a theatrical production or film.

She played the lead role in the school play.

5

To cause (audio or video) to be heard or seen.

Can you play the video for me?

Antonym

Noun

1

Activity engaged in for enjoyment and recreation, especially by children.

Children need time for play every day.

2

A dramatic work for the stage or to be broadcast.

We went to see a play at the theater last night.

3

The action or manner of engaging in a sport or game.

The referee stopped play after the foul.

Synonym

Antonym