mind game

mind game

n.

1. An act or series of acts of calculated psychological manipulation, especially in order to confuse or intimidate. Often used in the plural.

2. An activity that provides entertainment and challenges the intellect.

Thesaurus

Noun	1.	mind game - any game designed to exercise the intellect game - an amusement or pastime; "they played word games"; "he thought of his painting as a game that filled his empty time"; "his life was all fun and games"
	2.	mind game - deliberate actions of calculated psychological manipulation intended to intimidate or confuse (usually for competitive advantage); "football players try to play mind games with the opposition"; "the jeweler's mind game is to convince lovers that the size of a gemstone reflects the depth of their feelings" manipulation, use - exerting shrewd or devious influence especially for one's own advantage; "his manipulation of his friends was scandalous"