Phrase guide

play around

verb · 5 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To behave in a silly, childish, or irresponsible way.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • Stop playing around, and get on with your homework.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To work with something in a non-serious manner; to tweak or tinker.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • He was interested in electronics and began playing around with amplifiers.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

verb

Meaning 3

To engage in sexual practices outside of marriage.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

4

verb

Meaning 4

work with in an amateurish manner

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • She dabbles in astronomy
  • He plays around with investments but he never makes any money

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: dabble, smatter

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: busy, occupy

5

verb

Meaning 5

commit adultery

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • he plays around a lot

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: fool around

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: cheat on, cheat, cuckold, betray, wander

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.