n. 1 form of play or sport, esp. a competitive one with rules. 2 portion of play forming a scoring unit, e.g. in bridge or tennis. 3 (in pl.) series of athletic etc. contests (Olympic Games). 4 a piece of fun, jest (didn’t mean to upset you; it was only a game). b (in pt.) dodges, tricks (none of your games!). 5 colloq. a scheme (so that’s your game). b type of activity or business (have been in the antiques game a long time). 6 a wild animals or birds hunted for sport or food. b their flesh as food. adj. spirited; eager and willing (are you game for a walk?). v. (ming) gamble for money stakes. u the game is up scheme is revealed or foiled. on the game slang working as a prostitute. gamely adv. [Old English]
