play-by-play

adjective

ˈplā-ˌbī-ˌplā How to pronounce play-by-play (audio)
ˌplā-ˌbī-ˈplā
Synonyms of play-by-playnext
1
: being or giving a running commentary on a sports event
a radio play-by-play announcer
2
: relating each event as it occurs
play-by-play noun

Examples of play-by-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.
Coleman found instructive a 1938 ruling in favor of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who challenged a radio station that placed observers on a rooftop next to Forbes Field and paid them to provide play-by-play for an unauthorized radio broadcast. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Dallas Cowboys’ Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman and longtime play-by-play announcer Joe Buck appear to be headed for a split this offseason. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Oct. 2026 The fact Buck has signed a new contract to remain with Disney/ ABC/ ESPN as the play-by-play man on Monday Night Football, and Aikman doesn't have any deal in place beyond this season. — Armando Salguero Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026 The judges are joined tonight by Joe Buck, the lead play-by-play announcer for ESPN’s Monday Night Football. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for play-by-play

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of play-by-play was in 1927

Rhymes for play-by-play

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Browse Nearby Words

play by ear
play-by-play
play catch-up
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Play-by-play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/play-by-play. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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