Need another word for Play? Use these synonyms of Play from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
recreate
entertain
amuse
delight
enjoy
have fun
frolic
romp
cavort
sport
divert
recreate
indulge
revel
savor
appreciate
like
love
adore
cherish
treasure
thrill
excite
stimulate
animate
enliven
liven
cheer
gladden
please
gratify
satisfy
recreate
perform
act
enact
portray
impersonate
mimic
simulate
pretend
make believe
Meaning of Play
The primary meaning of the word "play" is to engage in an activity for enjoyment or recreation.
Definitions
- Oxford Languages defines "play" as an activity engaged in for enjoyment or recreation, not for a serious or practical purpose.
- It can also refer to the act of performing a role or character in a theatrical performance.
- Additionally, "play" can describe the action of moving or operating something, such as a musical instrument or a machine.
Etymology of Play
The word "play" originates from Old English "plegan" and Old Norse "leika", which both mean "to move quickly" or "to dance".
The word has been used in the English language since the 9th century, initially with the sense of "to move quickly" or "to dance", and later developing into its various modern meanings.
Example Uses
- The children went to the park to play on the swings and slide.
- The actor's performance was amazing, she really brought the character to play.
- Can you play the piano for us?
- The company will play a major role in the development of the new technology.