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.
Over two games in Tampa, the Rays had embarrassed the Yankees – nearly no hitting them in Game 1 and putting the ball in play and watching the errors ensue in Game 2. — Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2026 Trump’s low approval rating and nagging concerns about Paxton’s character have put the race squarely in play. — ABC News, 7 Oct. 2026 With Democrats poised to take the House majority next month and the Senate also in play, the proposal also faces a steep climb in 2027. — Shelby Talcott, semafor.com, 6 Oct. 2026 If a liquor license is in play, business owners need to contact the Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement office for their district. — Madeleine Wright, CBS News, 5 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
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Cite this Entry

“In play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20play. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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