play footsie

1. Behave coyly, flirt with, especially secretly. For example, Get to the point, there's no need to play footsie with us . This expression alludes to two persons surreptitiously rubbing each other's feet together. [1940s]

2. Cooperate or curry favor with in a sly or secret way, as in The mayor's been playing footsie with various neighborhood councils . [Mid-1900s]

Example Sentences

“And then, when the information exploded into the public domain, continue to coddle George Santos and play footsie with him for the better part of the year.”

From Seattle Times

Much of his apparent rise reflected support from big GOP donors, who saw him as a saner alternative to President Donald Trump — someone who would serve their financial interests while attracting working-class support with his social conservatism and willingness to play footsie with conspiracy theories.

From Seattle Times

We watched him play footsie with groups like the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers throughout his presidency.

From Salon

But it’s not Biden’s fault that Republicans continue to play footsie with the document hoarder of Mar-a-Lago.

From Washington Post

“Because of the broader political context that is taking place here — which includes mass murder — the dog whistles are much more effective. You’re playing with fire when you play footsie with these ideas.”

From New York Times

Related Words

• caress
• grope