play dead
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Experts say that, in these situations, it is best to lie down and play dead.
From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026
Mr Godino tells me they play dead when they feel under threat.
From BBC • Nov. 9, 2025
The advice is different with a smaller black bear: Don’t play dead.
From National Geographic • Aug. 17, 2023
When threatened, smaller armadillos roll up in a ball and play dead.
From Washington Post • Jan. 30, 2023
Local car salesmen wanted to roll over and play dead when one of the Langley fellas pulled into the lot, fearing a barrage of nonsensical and unanswerable technical questions.
From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly
