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.
Team executives insist the Dodgers are not for sale, but sports finance experts say Walter’s urgent need for cash could eventually put baseball’s most lucrative franchise in play. — Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 20 Aug. 2026 Remembering in November A fifth School Board seat remains in play because none of the five contenders got a majority of votes. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 20 Aug. 2026 There were other factors in play explaining the lack of strong Heat interest in each of those players. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 19 Aug. 2026 Lacob’s stated goal of winning a WNBA championship within five years is in play for this year’s Valkyries team. — Christian Babcock, Mercury News, 18 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 26 Aug. 2026.

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