Search Dictionary
Definition of matchplay

matchplay

/ˈmætʃˌpleɪ/
match · play
JUMP TO:

matchplay Lexical Profile

matchplay Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A scoring system in golf in which a player or team earns a point for each individual hole won rather than competing on the basis of the lowest total number of strokes across the entire round.

Example

"The prestigious tournament uses a matchplay format that encourages aggressive risk-taking on individual holes."

2

Actual competitive play in a formal sporting contest, as opposed to practice, training drills, or warm-up sessions.

Example

"The tennis player looked sharp during practice, but struggled to maintain her composure during competitive matchplay."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for matchplay
Antonyms
View all antonyms for matchplay

• Nearby Words

matchmake
matchmaker
matchmaking
matchplay
matchpoint
matchstick
matchup

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Matchplay. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/matchplay
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.