gameplay

noun

game·​play ˈgām-ˌplā How to pronounce gameplay (audio)
variants or game play
plural gameplays or game plays
1
: the characteristic way in which the action of a game (such as a video game) occurs or is experienced
Each game is cleanly done with smooth gameplay and colorful graphics.Joe Hindy
Featuring intuitive and addictive gameplay, the game is a lovely distraction from the troubles of the day.Amy Davidson
The unique game play led to players adopting all sorts of interesting strategies for getting a high score.Jeff Fulton and Steve Fulton
2
: the practice or activity of playing games (such as board games, card games, or video games) : gaming sense 2
Unlike the vast majority of previous studies on the effect of video games on wellbeing, the Oxford team were able to track actual gameplay, rather than relying on self-reported estimates.Alex Hern
While not all card shufflers operate more quickly than manual shuffling, in general, a card shuffler speeds up gameplay.Allen Foster
… a gaming chair that also massages your back, features an adjustable headrest and has an ergonomic design that allows for hours and hours of game play.Heather Quinlan

Examples of gameplay in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The game will also include gameplay inspired by the upcoming Brad Pitt film F1, which will be released by Apple this summer, in order to enhance the entire F1 experience. Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025 Aside from the obvious benefits like the forge there to upgrade your gear, raising the place to a higher level will also give you a bunch of passive bonuses during gameplay, such as scouts bringing in money, free ration and adrenaline refills, and reduced forging costs. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 20 Mar. 2025 To do so, Qualcomm on Monday announced its next-generation Snapdragon G series chips, which are designed to sustain long, high-quality gameplay on handheld devices. Michael Kan, PCMAG, 18 Mar. 2025 The Show 25 review as well as more tips for gameplay. Brian Mazique, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for gameplay

Word History

First Known Use

1920, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of gameplay was in 1920

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Cite this Entry

“Gameplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gameplay. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

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