(intransitive) To act in a manner such that one has fun; to engage in activities expressly for the purpose of recreation or entertainment. / (transitive) To compete against, in a game.

(uncountable, formerly countable) Activity for amusement only, especially among the young. / (uncountable) Similar activity in young animals, as they explore their environment and learn new skills.

(cricket, reflexive, play oneself in) Of a batsman, to settle and become comfortable with the conditions at the beginning of his innings.

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see play, on. / To exploit by exacerbating. / (cricket, of a batsman) to hit the ball into his own wicket, thus being out bowled

simple past tense and past participle of play

(gerund of play) An occasion on which something, such as a song or show, is played.

present participle of play

plural of playing

To pretend to be a different person while playing a game. / To do something in a manner that lacks seriousness, commitment, or professionalism. / (archaic) To play (a game).

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: play with. / (transitive) To fiddle with; make small adjustments to, for example to something mechanical in order to improve its performance.