play-off

[ pley-awf, -of ]

noun

1. (in competitive sports) the playing of an extra game, rounds, innings, etc., in order to settle a tie.
2. a series of games or matches, as between the leading teams of two leagues, in order to decide a championship:

   In America the most exciting play-off is the World Series.

play off

verb

1. trusually foll byagainst to deal with or manipulate as if in playing a game

   to play one person off against another

2. intr to take part in a play-off

noun

1. sport an extra contest to decide the winner when two or more competitors are tied
2. a contest or series of games to determine a championship, as between the winners of two competitions

Word History and Origins

Origin of play-off¹

First recorded in 1890–95; noun use of verb phrase play off

Related Words

• circumvent
• counter
• curb
• defeat
• foil
• frustrate
• hinder
• impede
• obstruct
• oppose
• prevent
• stop
• stymie