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.
Khalil’s case is playing out separately in immigration court in Louisiana where he’s been in detention. Matt Rehbein, CNN Money, 29 May 2025 The pattern of federal cuts and turmoil related to research also is playing out with the National Institutes of Health. Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2025 There was a scene that was played out on a stage almost like that of a musical. Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 28 May 2025 The entire incident played out in a matter of minutes, but then took on a life of its own. Jillian Frankel, People.com, 28 May 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 4 Jun. 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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