rope-a-dope
Coined by US boxer Muhammad Ali, who famously employed this strategy in the ring.
1. noun A boxing strategy in which one allows oneself to become trapped against the ropes while blocking an opponent's punches, thus causing them to become fatigued and vulnerable to attack. It looks like the underdog's rope-a-dope is working, with the heavyweight champion starting to get sluggish.
2. adjective Of or describing such a strategy or technique. Remember, don't get sucked in by her rope-a-dope tactics. Try to keep her engaged in the middle of the ring.
3. adjective Of or describing a strategy in which one allows oneself to enter a passive or defensive position in order to anticipate and capitalize on an opportunity to attack an opponent. The senator displayed a textbook rope-a-dope technique during the debate, having prepared defenses against her opponent's every attack, then delivering several sobering criticisms near the end that went largely uncontested. It was true rope-a-dope defense by the home team, shutting down their opponent's every offensive opportunity in order to maintain control of their lead.
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