Real Dictionary

play
countable noun: A play is a piece of writing which is performed in a theatre, on the radio, or on television.
link verb: You can use play to describe how someone behaves, when they are deliberately behaving in a certain way or like a certain type of person. For example, to play the innocent, means to pretend to be innocent, and to play deaf means to pretend not to hear some
verb: If an actor plays a role or character in a play or film, he or she performs the part of that character.
verb: If you play a joke or a trick on someone, you deceive them or give them a surprise in a way that you think is funny, but that often causes problems for them or annoys them.
verb: If you play with an object or with your hair, you keep moving it or touching it with your fingers, perhaps because you are bored or nervous.
verb: When children, animals, or perhaps adults play, they spend time doing enjoyable things, such as using toys and taking part in games.
verb: When one person or team plays another or plays against them, they compete against them in a sport or game.
verb: When you play a sport, game, or match, you take part in it.
verb: When you play the ball or play a shot in a game or sport, you kick or hit the ball.
verb: You can describe how someone deals with a situation by saying that they play it in a certain way. For example, if someone plays it cool, they keep calm and do not show much emotion, and if someone plays it straight, they behave in an honest and direct way

play in American English
to move lightly, rapidly, or erratically; flutter
noun: a dramatic composition or piece; drama

play in British English
verb: to occupy oneself in (a sport or diversion); amuse oneself in (a game)