end play

1 of 2

noun

1
: slight endwise movement (as of a shaft or axle)
also : room for such movement
2
a
: any of various plays in bridge usually made on the eleventh trick and occurring when a declarer forces an opponent to make a lead favorable to the declarer and after the declarer has first eliminated all cards not essential to the play compare coup, elimination, squeeze, throw-in
c
: end game

end play

2 of 2

transitive verb

1
: to execute a throw-in when playing (a bridge hand)
2
: to force (a bridge opponent) to win a trick and make a subsequent lead unfavorable to him

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near end play

Cite this Entry

“End play.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/end%20play. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!