by-play

American  

[bahy-pley] / ˈbaɪˌpleɪ /

Or byplay

noun

1. an action or speech carried on to the side while the main action proceeds, especially on the stage.

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by-play British  

noun

1. secondary action or talking carried on apart while the main action proceeds, esp in a play

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Etymology

Origin of by-play

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

There's much to enjoy here besides the brain-mangling howdunit element: the thrill of the chase; but also the snappy by-play between Gurney and his long-suffering wife, Madeleine.

From The Guardian • Aug. 20, 2010

All of which was mere by-play to fill an idle hour, because the Tycoons all declined their invitations, except Henry Ford, who toyed with the idea as a public possibility longer than the rest.

From Time Magazine Archive

His tall sleek figure, his shiny black hair, his resounding rhetoric, his theatrical by-play with black-corded glasses have caused many an ignorant observer to mistake him for a onetime Shakespearean actor.

From Time Magazine Archive

Woven through this inconsequential thesis is a variety of vigorous by-play and device.

From Time Magazine Archive

The insinuation of the words, the by-play of the eyes, had passed over Vivien's head and outside the limits of Andy's perspicacity.

From Second String by Hope, Anthony