play out

verb

played out; playing out; plays out

transitive verb

1
a
: to perform to the end
play out a role
b
2
: unreel, unfold
played out a length of lineGordon Webber

intransitive verb

1
: to become spent or exhausted
2
: develop, unfold
see how things play out

Examples of play out in a Sentence

we've finally played out the leftovers from that huge holiday meal
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The salary conversation offers a first glimpse into how that dynamic might play out. Kate Wieczorek, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025 Hoyer’s vision has largely played out with Counsell at the helm. Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 28 July 2025 How this season plays out, of course, remains to be seen. Vahe Gregorian july 28, Kansas City Star, 28 July 2025 The announcement shows how the new tech revolution could play out differently than the last one did in Hollywood. Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 28 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for play out

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of play out was in 1598

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Play out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/play%20out. Accessed 2 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

play out

verb
1
: to perform to the end
2
a
: to use up or finish
b
: to become exhausted : tire
3
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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