at play

phrase

1
: in the act of playing
the sounds of children at play
2
: being something that helps produce or influence a result
Several issues are at play in determining the price of gasoline.

Examples of at 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.
This might not be that time, with major needs still at play, namely 3-point spacing, a starting shooting guard, and another big body for the power rotation. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 16 Aug. 2026 When looking back at the 2025-26 Bruins’ surprising run to the playoffs, many factors were at play. — Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 15 Aug. 2026 Still, a visit to Meyers’ sleek apartment, admittedly paid for by his parents, confirms for Ed the kind of youthful privilege at play here, so unlike the scrappier downtown bohemia of his own artistic heyday. — Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026 The anonymity at play ensures that the scope of this threat will stay unknown too. — Casey Michel, The Atlantic, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for at play

Rhymes for at play

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Browse Nearby Words

at peace
at play
at present
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Cite this Entry

“At play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20play. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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