tryout

[trahy-out]

noun

1. a trial or test to ascertain fitness for some purpose.

2. Theater.,  performances of a play in preparation for an official opening, often taking place away from a major theatrical center.

Word History and Origins

Origin of tryout¹

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05; noun use of verb phrase try out

Example Sentences

To revive his career, he joins open tryouts for a struggling college-football squad, disguising himself and changing his name to Chad Powers.

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Tell each organization about your tryout’s expected duration, says Laura, founder of the Retirement Coaches Association, that way “you avoid regrets associated with feeling pressured to stay longer.”

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If that premise sounds familiar, it’s because the series is based on a viral sketch featuring former NFL all-star Eli Manning, who goes undercover for walk-on quarterback tryouts at Penn State.

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That landed her a tryout and two decades later, her 163 international caps are second-most in history for her national team.

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Outside the Dream Stage tryout room, Jaelyn Jones waits with bated breath.

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Related Words

• audition 
• examination