cat and mouse

Short definition from Wiktionary

Noun

1. 1
   A relationship in which two parties closely monitor and challenge one another in a suspicious or self-protective manner, often because each party is attempting to gain an advantage over the other.
2. 2
   A form of attack in which the attacker toys with the victim by inflicting minor damage or letting the victim have futile hopes of escape before finally finishing the victim off.
3. 3
   A children's game in which one player (the "cat") attempts to break through a ring of players to catch another player (the "mouse") in the centre.
4. 4
   Alternative form of cat and mouse.

Verb

1. 1
   Alternative form of cat-and-mouse.
2. 2
   To engage in a game of cat and mouse: To mutually monitor and challenge each other in an attempt to gain advantage.
3. 3
   To engage in a game of cat and mouse: To toy with (one's victim).

Adjective

1. 1
   suspenseful, involving alternating roles of attack and defence.