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.
Ohtani returning to pitching Sunday is still in play, Roberts confirmed. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026 Former Bulls center Nick Richards, who has been working with Heat players at Kaseya Center, remains very much in play for that spot. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 24 Aug. 2026 Meanwhile, a public vote on the project — or at least parts of it — still appears to be in play. — Dylan Lysen, Kansas City Star, 22 Aug. 2026 Fried got back on the mound Saturday and threw a successful side session, keeping that goal in play. — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 22 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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