A game

American  

Or A-game,

noun

Informal.

1. a person’s best effort, abilities, or achievement.

   The candidate brought her A game to the debate.

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'A' game British  

noun

1. informal one's best possible performance, esp in the phrase to bring or take one's 'A' game

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Etymology

Origin of A game

In reference to a sports contest, with the letter A indicating peak performance

Example Sentences

A game of energetic ping-pong unfolded underneath the gallery’s fluorescent light, beams of identification, recollections or stabs of grief bouncing off each piece in the exhibition.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

A game of bowling at Tenpin costs £38.50 making the total night out £212.50.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

Crawley has played eight one-day internationals, the last of which in West Indies in December 2023 was also his last List A game.

From BBC • Dec. 30, 2025

"A game like this, you can't dwell into it too much," said vice-captain Pant, who took charge of the team after Gill was forced out.

From Barron's • Nov. 16, 2025

A game room with a pool table and beanbag chairs and another TV.

From "Two Degrees" by Alan Gratz