OUTPLAYED' Outplayed is a term used to describe when one person or team has been outdone by another in a competition. It is often used in sports, but can also be used in other contexts such as business or politics. The term 'outplayed' is made up of two words, 'OUT' and 'played'. The word 'OUT' means to surpass or exceed, while the word 'played' refers to the act of competing. When someone is outplayed, they have been surpassed or exceeded by their opponent in a competition.