plays

Noun

play (countable and uncountable, plural plays)

1. (uncountable, formerly countable) Activity for amusement only, especially among the young.
   • Children learn through play.
2. (uncountable) Similar activity in young animals, as they explore their environment and learn new skills.
   • This kind of play helps the young lion cubs develop their hunting skills.
3. (uncountable) The conduct, or course, of a game.
   • Play was very slow in the first half.
4. (also, figuratively, uncountable) The sphere or circumstance in which a playing implement, such as a ball, is played or available to be played (see also in play, out of play).
   • In potting the yellow ball, he's knocked the green into play.
5. (uncountable) An individual's performance in a sport or game.
   • His play has improved a lot this season.
6. (countable) A short sequence of action within a game.
   • That was a great play by the Mudchester Rovers forward.

See all 53 meanings of play