in play

phrase

: in condition or position to be legitimately played

Examples of in play in a Sentence

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.
Sirianni stood by his decision on that sequence but regretted kicking the ball in play to Ameer Abdullah on the ensuing kickoff, after Abdullah’s 53-yard return in seven seconds set up Jacksonville’s game-winning kick. — Saad Yousuf, New York Times, 15 Oct. 2026 Even after the Miami Heat landed two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo this past offseason, NBA general managers believe the Heat could again be in play-in tournament territory this season. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026 Milwaukee struck out 13 times, only putting the ball in play in 13 of their 26 at bats. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Republican Senate candidates are trailing in Texas and Ohio, while Alaska, Kansas and Iowa also appear to be in play for Democrats. — Ray Lewis, Baltimore Sun, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for in play

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of in play was in 1578

Rhymes for in play

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Browse Nearby Words

in plaster
in play
in plenty
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20play. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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