Feb. 11, 2010

I found this interesting.....especially the different meanings of play; look towards the middle to end of the list, those are the definitions that I find most thought provoking.

Definition of PLAY

Etymology: Middle English, from Old English plega; akin to Old English plegan to play, Middle Dutch pleyen
Date: before 12th century
1 a : swordplay b archaic : game, sport c : the conduct, course, or action of a game d : a particular act or maneuver in a game: as (1) : the action during an attempt to advance the ball in football (2) : the action in which a player is put out in baseball e : the action in which cards are played after bidding in a card game f : the moving of a piece in a board game (as chess) g : one's turn in a game
2 a obsolete : sexual intercourse b : amorous flirtation : dalliance
3 a : recreational activity; especially : the spontaneous activity of children b : absence of serious or harmful intent : jest c : the act or an instance of playing on words or speech sounds d : gaming, gambling
4 a (1) : an act, way, or manner of proceeding : maneuver (2) : deal, venture b (1) : the state of being active, operative, or relevant (2) : brisk, fitful, or light movement (3) : free or unimpeded motion (as of a part of a machine); also : the length or measure of such motion (4) : scope or opportunity for action (5) : a function of an electronic device that causes a recording to play
5 : emphasis or publicity especially in the news media
6 : a move or series of moves calculated to arouse friendly feelings —usually used with make
7 a : the stage representation of an action or story b : a dramatic composition : drama

synonyms see fun

— in play : in condition or position to be legitimately played

— out of play : not in play