Playoff (noun)

1. A series of games played to determine the winner of a championship, especially in American football, baseball, and basketball.
2. A series of games played at the end of a sports season to determine a league champion.
3. A tournament held after the regular season to determine a champion, as in professional or college sports.

Origin:

Early 20th century: blend of play and off.

Examples:

1. The team advanced to the playoffs.
2. The team won the playoff game.
3. The playoffs are held at the end of the season.
4. He was a star player in the playoffs.
5. She watched the playoff game on TV.