plies

VERB

use, work at

Synonyms

STRONG

dispense employ exercise exert follow function handle maneuver manipulate practice pursue swing throw utilize wield

WEAK

carry on put out

Antonyms

STRONG

disregard ignore leave alone misuse neglect receive shun stop

WEAK

be lazy idle

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.

Sheinbaum's interest in her art had "changed her life," the trained business administrator said in Oaxaca in southern Mexico, where she now plies her art.

From Barron's • Jan. 2, 2026

One Colombian pilot who plies the Caribbean said crews look for any advantage, from sailing at night or in rough weather, even in storms when Colombian government patrol boats might stay in port.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 28, 2025

She plies a similar jovial egocentrism as a substitute teacher on “Abbott Elementary,” and both characters are insufferable to the adults in the room.

From Salon • Feb. 9, 2024

He now plies his trade for SS Cosmos in San Marino's amateur league championship.

From BBC • Oct. 13, 2023

An almost unending stream of boats, each of them packed with tall, bronzed Australians and New Zealanders, plies towards the warships and transports that remain.

From The Childrens' Story of the War, Volume 3 (of 10) by Parrott, James Edward