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Definition of outplay

outplay

/ˌaʊtˈpleɪ/
out · play
Plural:outplays
•
Past Simple:outplayed
•
Past Participle:outplayed
•
Present Participle:outplaying
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outplay Lexical Profile

outplay Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To play better or more skillfully than an opponent in a game, sport, or contest.

Example

"The visiting soccer team managed to outplay the defending champions throughout the second half."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for outplay

• noun

1

A skillful maneuver or sequence of actions in a competitive game, especially in esports, by which a player outmaneuvers and defeats an opponent.

Example

"The crowd cheered loudly after the midfielder executed a brilliant outplay near the goal line."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for outplay
Antonyms
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• Rhymes for outplay

• Nearby Words

outperform
outperformance
outplan
outplay
outpoint
outpost
outpour

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 16th century, formed in English from the prefix 'out-' (meaning 'to surpass or exceed') and the verb 'play'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Outplay. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/outplay
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