role-play

or role·play

[ rohl-pley ]

/ ˈroʊlˌpleɪ /

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verb (used with object)

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.

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.

verb (used without object)

to engage in role-playing.

noun

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.

QUIZ

THINGAMABOB OR THINGUMMY: CAN YOU DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THE US AND UK TERMS IN THIS QUIZ?

Do you know the difference between everyday US and UK terminology? Test yourself with this quiz on words that differ across the Atlantic.

Question 1 of 7

In the UK, COTTON CANDY is more commonly known as…

candystring

candyfloss

candypuff

TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

Origin of role-play

First recorded in 1945–50