play dead

Verb

Meaning

To lie very still, like a corpse.

To act as though defeated while awaiting a chance to attack.

Synonyms

Examples

If you annoy the Hog-nosed Snake enough, he will roll over on his back and play dead. If you turn him right-side up, he will roll over to prove that he is dead. [Footnote:] While he is playing dead, you can go straight up to him and step on his head or smash him with a big club. Will Cuppy

I don't think the news department will have to lie down and play dead like it has in the past. By and large the network has been understanding, but then so have I. Roone Arledge

The real heroes are the librarians and teachers who at no small risk to themselves refuse to lie down and play dead for censors. Bruce Coville

Don't play dead with a vulture. That's exactly what they want. Kevin Nealon

What am I? Let's just say I won't fetch a stick for you. I won't beg for treats. And, no matter how nicely you ask, I will not roll over and play dead. Kelley Armstrong

I can put on my resume: 'Can play dead.' Tom Verica

Close letter words and terms