play at

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see play, at.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

The band are playing at the Odeon tonight.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To pretend to be a different person while playing a game.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To do something in a manner that lacks seriousness, commitment, or professionalism.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “play at” mean?

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see play, at.

Is “play at” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.