Play possum

usgb
verb

To pretend to be unconscious or asleep.

When I tried to wake him for school, he played possum and wouldn't get up.
Visual representation of "play possum" - To pretend to be unconscious or asleep.

Often appears as...

  • play possum and hide
  • play possum to avoid

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "play possum"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Deception Play

Used to trick others into thinking you're not awake or aware to avoid interaction.

Illustration for Deception Play
During the boring lecture, he played possum to not get called on.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Childish Strategy

Often a method children use to avoid chores or responsibilities.

Illustration for Childish Strategy
She played possum to dodge cleaning her room.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Literally Asleep

Remember, it just mimics sleep; there's no actual sleeping involved.

Illustration for Not Literally Asleep
He wasn't napping, just played possum when I came in.
Visual representation of the word "Play possum"

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