Synonyms for play

Other words for “play”, grouped by meaning.

We found 44 synonyms for “play”. The most common are drama, dramatic play, maneuver, manoeuvre, bid.

noun a dramatic work intended for performance by actors on a stage

noun a deliberate coordinated movement requiring dexterity and skill

noun an attempt to get something

Synonymsbid

noun activity by children that is guided more by imagination than by fixed rules

Synonymschild's play

noun (in games or plays or other performances) the time during which play proceeds

noun the removal of constraints

Synonymsfree rein

noun a weak and tremulous light

Synonymsshimmer

noun verbal wit or mockery (often at another's expense but not to be taken seriously)

Synonymsfunsport

noun movement or space for movement

Synonymslooseness

noun gay or light-hearted recreational activity for diversion or amusement

noun (game) the activity of doing something in an agreed succession

Synonymsturn

noun the act of playing for stakes in the hope of winning (including the payment of a price for a chance to win a prize)

noun the act using a sword (or other weapon) vigorously and skillfully

Synonymsswordplay

verb play a role or part

Synonymsactrepresent

verb replay (as a melody)

Synonymsspiel

verb pretend to have certain qualities or state of mind

Synonymsactact as

verb engage in recreational activities rather than work; occupy oneself in a diversion

Synonymsrecreate

verb engage in an activity as if it were a game rather than take it seriously

Synonymstoy

verb cause to emit recorded audio or video

Synonymsrun

verb manipulate manually or in one's mind or imagination

verb consider not very seriously

Synonymsdallytrifle

verb behave carelessly or indifferently

verb perform on a stage or theater

verb cause to happen or to occur as a consequence

verb stake on the outcome of an issue

Synonymsbetwager

verb contend against an opponent in a sport, game, or battle

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University