cat and mouse
noun
Definition of cat and mouse
: behavior like that of a cat with a mouse: such asa : the act of toying with or tormenting something before destroying itb : a contrived action involving constant pursuit, near captures, and repeated escapes played a game of cat and mouse with the police; broadly : an evasive action
From the M-W Editors
First Known Use of cat and mouse
1675
CAT AND MOUSE Defined for English Language Learners
cat and mouse
noun
Definition of cat and mouse for English Language Learners
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: behavior that is like the way a cat chases a mouse or plays with a mouse before killing it
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