The Oxford English Dictionary has released its quarterly update – adding more than 500 new words, phrases, and senses to its ranks. 'Play play' tops the list, meaning 'to fool about, mess around, waste time' or 'to act frivolously or teasingly'. While new words usually relate to the present day, Philip Durkin, Deputy Chief Editor at the Oxford English Dictionary, explains that many have their roots in old English. 'Originally this word was used to describe a fantastical or idealized story or situation involving romance,' Oxford English Dictionary explained. Play play: To fool about, mess around, waste time; to act frivolously or teasingly.

Source: Daily Mail March 29, 2026 20:09 UTC