play ostrich . play ostrich {v. phr.} To refuse to face painful facts or unpleasant truths. She plays ostrich when it comes to her husband's drinking problem. Categories: add yours {v. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: P Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Discuss