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role-play

[rohl-pley]
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: trainees role-playing management positions.
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verb (used without object)
  1. to engage in role-playing.
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Origin of role-play

First recorded in 1945–50
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Word Origin and History for roleplay

n.

also role-play, 1958; from role (n.) + play (v.). As a verb by 1961. Related: Role-playing

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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
roleplay in Medicine

role-play

(rōl′plā′)
v.
  1. To assume deliberately the part or role of; act out.
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n.
  1. Role-playing.
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The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.