rope-a-dope

Etymology
See.

Noun

 * 1)  A technique in which the boxer assumes a defensive stance against the ropes and absorbs an opponent's blows, hoping to exploit eventual tiredness or a mistake.
 * 2)  Any strategy where an apparently losing position is assumed in the hope of eventual victory.
 * 1)  Any strategy where an apparently losing position is assumed in the hope of eventual victory.
 * 1)  Any strategy where an apparently losing position is assumed in the hope of eventual victory.

Verb

 * 1)  To exhaust someone by stringing them along.
 * Willis rope-a-doped us all night.