Definition

Not participating in a game or activity; not involved in play.

Example

The nonplaying members of the team supported their friends from the sidelines.

Conversation

I saw you at the game yesterday, but you were just sitting there.

Yeah, I was being a nonplaying spectator this time.

It was still fun to watch, even if you weren't playing.

Definitely! Sometimes it's nice to just relax and enjoy the show.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonplaying → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "playing" (from the verb "play", which has roots in Old English "plegian", meaning to engage in activity for enjoyment). The word "nonplaying" means not engaging in play or activity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') engaging in 'play' — that's why nonplaying means not participating in play.

Visually Confused Words