rope-a-dope
noun
- a method of tiring out a boxing opponent by pretending to be trapped on the ropes while the opponent expends energy on punches that are blocked
- (as modifier)rope-a-dope strategy
Word Origin for rope-a-dope
C20: coined by
Muhammad Ali
Words nearby rope-a-dope
rope socket,
rope stitch,
rope tow,
rope yarn,
rope's end,
rope-a-dope,
ropeable,
ropedancer,
ropemaking,
ropery,
ropewalk
Example sentences from the Web for rope-a-dope
It was painful to take it, and we knew we would be criticized, but it was our version of the rope-a-dope.
Imagine a boxer who deployed a rope-a-dope strategy but spent the entire fight taking punch after punch on the ropes.
He describes a strategy he uses where he lets his opponent win a few undeserving rounds, similar to a rope-a-dope in boxing.