role-playing

American  

[rohl-pley-ing] / ˈroʊlˌpleɪ ɪŋ /

noun

1. a method of instruction or psychotherapy aimed at changing attitudes and behavior, in which participants act out designated roles relevant to real-life situations.

2. the modifying of a person's behavior to accord with a desired personal image, as to impress others or conform to a particular environment.

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role-playing British  

noun

1. psychol activity in which a person imitates, consciously or unconsciously, a role uncharacteristic of himself See also psychodrama

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Etymology

Origin of role-playing

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

During her time away from MMA, Carano turned to acting, before securing a key role playing Cara Dune in the Star Wars franchise spin-off The Mandalorian.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

So, to answer you directly: Is this a "role playing experience"? No.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

And in “Marty Supreme,” Chalamet has found an instantly career-defining role playing a version of himself, equally matched in fervor and sick persistence.

From Salon • Dec. 25, 2025

“I just thought that it was so fun, the role playing within the role playing that happens,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2025

They were fighting for pink slips on role playing characters.

From "Geeks: How Two Lost Boys Rode the Internet Out of Idaho" by Jon Katz