Langimage
English

playing

|play/ing|

A1

/ˈpleɪ.ɪŋ/

(play)

participant

Base FormPluralPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNounNounAdjective
playplayersplaysplaysplayedplayedplayingplaysplayabilityplayable
Etymology
Etymology Information

'play' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'plegian,' where 'pleg-' meant 'to exercise or move quickly.'

Historical Evolution

'plegian' transformed into the Middle English word 'pleyen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'play.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to exercise or move quickly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'engaging in activities for enjoyment or recreation.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

engaging in an activity for enjoyment or recreation.

The children are playing in the park.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

performing a role or part in a theatrical production.

She is playing Juliet in the school play.

Synonyms

Verb 3

participating in a sport or game.

He is playing soccer with his friends.

Synonyms

Verb 4

operating or manipulating a musical instrument.

She is playing the piano beautifully.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35