ENGLISH
REFERENCE

playing

v. · n.
US //ˈpɫeɪɪŋ// UK //plˈeɪɪŋ// play·ing
  1. 1 doing an activity now (v.)
    A1 Beginner Sport

    the action of taking part in a game or sport right now.

    the present participle of 'play', used in continuous tenses to describe current engagement in a game or recreational activity.

    Example

    The children are playing in the garden while their parents cook dinner.

    Example

    The local team is currently playing their final match of the season, hoping to secure a place in the regional playoffs.
  2. 2 making music (v.)
    A1 Beginner Music

    the action of making music with an instrument.

    the present participle of 'play', used to describe the ongoing act of performing music or operating a musical instrument.

    Example

    I can hear someone playing the piano in the room upstairs.

    Example

    The orchestra was playing a complex symphony when the power suddenly failed, leaving the concert hall in total darkness.
  3. 3 the activity of a game (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the act or hobby of taking part in games or sports.

    the gerund form of 'play', used as a noun to refer to the activity or style of participation in a game.

    Example

    Playing football is a great way to stay healthy and meet new friends.

    Example

    Professional playing requires a level of dedication and physical conditioning that few amateur athletes can maintain over a long career.
  4. 4 a performance (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Music

    an occasion when a song, film, or show is broadcast or performed.

    the act of broadcasting or performing a specific piece of media or art.

    Example

    The radio station gave the new song its first playing this morning.

    Example

    After several playings of the security footage, the investigators finally noticed the subtle movement near the warehouse entrance.
Origin

From Middle English playing; equivalent to play + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 19, 2026