play the role

idiom

: to act the part of (a particular character) in a film, play, etc.

He often plays the role of the villain.

—often used figuratively

He was playing the role of (the) gracious host.

Examples of play the role in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Former cast member Maya Rudolph is set to play the role of Vice President Kamala Harris in the lead-up to next week's presidential election while James Austin Johnson will reprise his role as former President Donald Trump. —

Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY, 2 Nov. 2024 Fatone will play the role of Lance beginning January 21, 2025. —

Greg Evans, Deadline, 22 Oct. 2024 Company leaders must play the role of a corporate statesperson by dealing effectively with a wide range of constituents, from sovereign governments to influential NGOs. —

Kelly Lockwood Primus, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 Additionally, Emmy Award-winning host and producer Jeannie Mai will play the role of Bowyn’s manager and TikTok influencer Haley Kalil will make her television debut as Drew’s sister-in-law, Nicole. —

Jordana Comiter, People.com, 18 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for play the role

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“Play the role.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/play%20the%20role. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

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