Game

Definition

Game is a noun, verb, and adjective. As a noun, it refers to an activity involving skill, knowledge, or chance, often for entertainment, competition, or education. It can also mean wild animals hunted for sport or food. As a verb, it means to play games or manipulate a situation for one's advantage. As an adjective, it describes someone eager and willing to take on a challenge.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡeɪm/
• Respelling: GAYM

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡeɪm/
• Respelling: GAYM

Etymology

The word "game" originates from Old English "gamen," meaning "joy, amusement, or sport." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*gamanan," meaning "participation or communion," and related to the Proto-Indo-European root "*ghem-," meaning "to unite or join."

Derivatives

• Gamer (noun)
• Gaming (noun/verb)
• Gameplay (noun)
• Gamified (adjective)
• Gamification (noun)

Synonyms

• Competition
• Sport
• Amusement

Antonyms

• Work
• Boredom
• None

Usage

The noun "game" is commonly used in contexts like "He played a board game with his friends." The verb form refers to engaging in gaming activities or strategizing, e.g., "She enjoys gaming online." As an adjective, it describes willingness or enthusiasm, e.g., "He is always game for an adventure."

Related Terms

• Play: An activity for enjoyment and recreation.
• Match: A contest or competition.
• Hunt: The act of pursuing animals for food or sport.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An activity for entertainment, competition, or education: Refers to structured play with specific rules.
  • Example: "The children played a new card game."
• Wild animals hunted for sport or food: Refers to animals such as deer or pheasants.
  • Example: "The forest is rich in game."

Verb

• To play games: Refers to engaging in structured activities for fun or competition.
  • Example: "She games every evening with her friends."
• To manipulate a situation to one's advantage: Describes exploiting rules or systems for gain.
  • Example: "They tried to game the system to win the contract."

Adjective

• Eager or willing to take on a challenge: Describes readiness or enthusiasm.
  • Example: "Are you game for a hike this weekend?"