plays
|plays|
/pleɪz/
(play)
participant
Etymology
'play' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'plega'/'plegian', where 'plega' meant 'exercise, sport, rapid motion or amusement'.
'play' changed from Old English 'plega' (or verb 'plegian') into Middle English forms such as 'pleien'/'pleye' and eventually became the modern English word 'play'.
Initially, it meant 'exercise, sport, quick movement, or amusement'; over time it broadened to include dramatic performances, recreational activities, and various figurative senses such as 'to perform' or 'to use (a device)'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'play': a dramatic work performed on stage or produced for performance.
The theatre is staging three new plays this season.
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Noun 2
plural of 'play': recreational activities or games for enjoyment, often by children.
The children spend their afternoons outdoors at various plays.
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Noun 3
plural of 'play': specific planned actions or tactics in sports or strategy (e.g., football plays).
The coach discussed several plays for the next quarter.
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Verb 1
third-person singular present of 'play': to engage in an activity for enjoyment or recreation.
She plays tennis every Saturday.
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Verb 2
third-person singular present of 'play': to perform a role or act in a theatrical, film, or television production.
He plays the lead in the school production.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/11/01 07:40