The phrase "played dead" means to pretend to be dead in order to avoid harm or danger. Some antonyms for this phrase include words like "alive," "awake," "alert," and "active." These words imply a sense of being aware and conscious, which is the opposite of playing dead. Other antonyms include "responsive," "animated," "vivacious," and "energetic," which all suggest a lively and engaged state of being. Overall, antonyms for "played dead" describe a state of being in which one is fully present and engaged in the world around them, rather than feigning death or avoidance.