play dead
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.
Experts say that, in these situations, it is best to lie down and play dead.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 8, 2026
But the snakes of Golem Grad island — whose main predators are birds — often play dead.
From New York Times ● May 7, 2024
The advice is different with a smaller black bear: Don’t play dead.
From National Geographic ● Aug. 17, 2023
When threatened, smaller armadillos roll up in a ball and play dead.
From Washington Post ● Jan. 30, 2023
You could play dead: “the state of collapse may be imitation of death, which many animals put on.”
From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman
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