# playmaker

CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/playmaker
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a player who is very good at creating chances for their team to score. In the past, this word was used for someone who organized a play or a game.

For teachers: a player who is responsible for initiating and orchestrating offensive plays. Historically, it referred to a person who directed or managed a theatrical performance.

## Examples

- The team's success depends on its star playmaker.
- The coach signed a new playmaker to improve the team's ability to break through the opponent's defense.
- While the modern playmaker is often a technical specialist, the historical role required a broader understanding of stagecraft and the ability to manage a large cast of actors.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.