This verb, formed from the noun 'child,' means to act childishly or play the child. Isaiah 3:12 uses it in a scathing critique: 'my people—its ruler is acting the child.' The prophet indicts Jerusalem's leadership as immature, irresponsible, and unfit to govern. This accusation comes in a passage describing the collapse of competent leadership and the installation of youths and women (in Isaiah's patriarchal context, considered inappropriate rulers). The verb captures the devastating situation when those in authority lack wisdom, seriousness, or capability—they 'play' at leadership while the nation suffers.