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.
Kevin Burkhardt, Joe Davis and Adam Amin are the lead play-by-play voices. — Takashi Williams, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026 Papa, whose health took him away from the KNBR radio booth for games last year, has maintained his desire to return to that play-by-play role when his health allows. — Michael Nowels, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2026 The Score’s programming includes Cubs and Bulls play-by-play, along with a full roster of sports talk hosts. — Robert Channick, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026 That means no more Rich Eisen, who was miscast on play-by-play for those games. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 24 Aug. 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 5 Sep. 2026.

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