Definitions

play ball

VERB

cooperate

Synonyms

WEAK

agree be in cahoots collaborate comply with conspire go along with join forces join in participate play the game pull together stick together work together

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

play ball

You’ve got to play games, or you’ve got to play ball with them.

From Slate ● Aug. 22, 2026

Now, if only the energy gods would also play ball by keeping the lights on for the matches.

From Barron's ● Jun. 14, 2026

But Dukakis didn't play ball, opting instead to purchase a replacement from the academy for $78.

From BBC ● May 1, 2026

“During that time we got know each other,” said Davis, who left home to play ball when he was teenager.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 28, 2025

And second of all, I saw you play ball, yo.

From "We Were Here" by Matt De La Peña