role-play

American  

[rohl-pley] / ˈroʊlˌpleɪ /

Or roleplay

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.

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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.

Etymology

Origin of role-play

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

I am not able to continue this role-play.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

These titles build on the success of 2020 hit Brookhaven, where kids role-play life in the titular suburb.

From Barron's • Nov. 26, 2025

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

From Slate • Sep. 25, 2025

Before the introduction of VR, students would sit in a classroom and go through possible scenarios using role-play techniques.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2024

But cooking is not the protagonist’s only job, we quickly learn: She is meant to role-play as the billionaire’s Korean wife, who has disappeared, in order to placate the investors.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 26, 2023