A game is a structured activity, usually undertaken for enjoyment and sometimes used as an educational tool. Games are distinct from work, which is usually carried out for remuneration, and from art, which is more concerned with the expression of ideas. A game can also be distinguished from play which is usually unstructured, and a puzzle which requires a strong mental concentration and is undertaken alone.

Noun

game (countable and uncountable; plural games)

1. (countable) A pursuit or activity with rules performed either alone or with others, for the purpose of entertainment. In many games, the objective is to win by defeating the other player or players or being the first to reach a specified goal, while in others, role-playing or cooperation is emphasized.

   Shall we play a game?

2. (sports) A contest between two individuals or teams. A game may refer to the entire encounter between the two (e.g. a basketball game), or to just one contest of several required to win (e.g. a tennis game).
3. (military) An exercise simulating warfare for the purpose of training personnel, testing combat readiness, or to better understand various possible outcomes of various strategies or tactics. The exercise may involve human participants, or it may be simulated, often with the aid of computers.
4. (uncountable) Wild animals hunted for food.

   The forest has plenty of game.

5. (countable) The entire being of an industry, activity or profession.

   When it comes to making sales, John is the best in the game.

6. (informal, used mostly of males) The ability to successfully seduce someone into a romantic relationship, usually achieved by pre-meditated strategy.

   He didn't get anywhere with her because he had no game.

Synonyms

• (activity performed for entertainment): pastime, play, recreation, frolic, sport, diversion, fun, amusement, merriment, festivity, entertainment, spree, prank, lark, gambol, merrymaking, gaiety
• (military): wargame