role-play

Or role·play

[rohl-pley]

verb (used with object)

1. to assume the attitudes, actions, and discourse of (another), especially in a make-believe situation in an effort to understand a differing point of view or social interaction.

   Management trainees were given a chance to role-play labor negotiators.

2. to experiment with or experience (a situation or viewpoint) by playing a role in a make-believe scenario.

   My therapist and I role-played ending a relationship—an important life skill.

verb (used without object)

1. to engage in role-playing.

noun

1. the act or technique of role-playing, or an instance of this.

   We often use role-play to help new immigrants learn English.

   In my nursing class we had to prepare a role-play about a dementia patient and her caregiver.

Word History and Origins

Origin of role-play¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

She would role-play a typical awkward first meeting, like a coffee shop date, with confidence.

From Slate

She broke up with her first chatbot boyfriend after an argument that broke out when he wouldn’t let her meet his very traditional parents—even though it was digital role-play.

From Slate

They detailed their role-play of picking out rings and making wedding plans.

From Slate

Her fans, who range in age from 18 to 75, all ask for stepmom role-play.

From Slate

But although her fans frequently ask her to do mother–son role-play, she always declines.

From Slate