Player
ˈpleɪər
Definitions
3 meaningsA person who participates in a game, sport, or other activity.
ˈpleɪər
A person who takes part in a game or sport.
The team's best player was injured during the match.
💡 Simply: A player is someone who's in the game! Like, if you're playing basketball, you're a player. Or if you're playing a video game, you are the player.
👶 For kids: A player is someone who is playing a game or sport!
More Examples
She is a skilled chess player.
The online game allows players to compete against each other.
How It's Used
"The star player scored the winning goal."
"Each player controlled a different character."
An actor or performer.
ˈpleɪər
A person who acts in a play or film.
The play featured a cast of talented players.
💡 Simply: When you see a movie, the people acting in it are called players or actors. They are playing characters.
👶 For kids: A player is someone who acts in a play or movie!
More Examples
The leading player in the movie gave an outstanding performance.
He's a veteran player in the theater.
How It's Used
"The actor was a seasoned player of Shakespearean roles."
"She is a well-known player in the film industry."
A person or organization that is involved in a particular activity or market.
ˈpleɪər
A person or company who is involved in a particular market or activity.
The bank is a major player in the financial sector.
💡 Simply: When someone or a company is considered a 'player' they are important in a certain field or business. Like a big business is an important player in making cars or something.
👶 For kids: A player is a person or company that is important in a certain business or activity!
More Examples
New companies are emerging as key players in the renewable energy market.
The government is a significant player in infrastructure development.
How It's Used
"The company is a major player in the technology market."
"Small businesses are also important players in the economy."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
play the field
To date many people, especially casually.
"He's playing the field before settling down."
play it safe
To act cautiously and avoid risks.
"To play it safe, bring a jacket in case it rains."
play along
To pretend to agree with someone or something, often to avoid conflict or to be polite.
"I knew he was joking, so I decided to play along."
From Middle English *pleier*, from Old English *plegiere* ('player, musician, dancer'), from *plegian* ('to play').
The word has been used to describe performers in sports and acting since the early 14th century.
Memory tip
Think of someone actively involved in the game. The person *plays*.
Word Origin
"One who plays"