playbook

American  

[pley-book] / ˈpleɪˌbʊk /

noun

1. (in Elizabethan drama) the script of a play, used by the actors as an acting text.

2. a book containing the scripts of one or more plays.

3. Football. a notebook containing descriptions of all the plays and strategies used by a team, often accompanied by diagrams, issued to players for them to study and memorize before the season begins.

4. Informal. any plan or set of strategies, as for outlining a campaign in business or politics.

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playbook British  

/ ˈpleɪˌbʊk /

noun

1. a book containing a range of possible set plays

2. a notional range of possible tactics in any sphere of activity

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Etymology

Origin of playbook

First recorded in 1525–35; play + book

Example Sentences

President Trump has followed the same playbook in both of his administrations.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 16, 2026

U.S. regulators are now taking a closer look at the Wall Street playbook that effectively intertwines private credit with traditional life insurance.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

While he is still learning Chesney’s playbook, the situation is very different and Iamaleava said being around the program for the whole spring will be great.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

The market is returning to its global growth playbook, with investors now seemingly speculating that the war in Iran may end soon — despite many unanswered questions, according to JPMorgan.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

Principal Cody unfolded his arms and took the playbook from Diego.

From "We Were Here" by Matt De La Peña

Related Words

• article
• book
• copy
• dialogue
• libretto
• manuscript
• scenario
• text