play-act

verb

1. intr to pretend or make believe
2. intr to behave in an overdramatic or affected manner
3. to act in or as in (a play)

Derived Forms

• ˈplay-ˌacting, noun
• ˈplay-ˌactor, noun

Example Sentences

They play-act peering into the minds and hearts of the founders while willfully missing the points, about exercising judicial impartiality, disclosing potential conflicts of interest and honoring our cornerstone separation of church and state.

From Salon

But he doesn't have the guts to admit it, instead continuing to play-act like he's a great man, even though no one is buying the act.

From Salon

While Republicans play-act as defenders of the working class, they labor tirelessly to drive working people deeper into lives of endless labor and debt servitude.

From Salon

You know, we—alive today—could play-act some truth and reconciliation–style interaction.

From Slate

He may play-act moderation for the gullible Beltway press corps, but McCarthy has been a cheerleader for the Trumpist agenda all along.

From Salon