war game

noun

, Military.

1. a simulated military operation, carried out to test the validity of a war plan or operational concept: in its simplest form, two opposing teams of officers take part, and when necessary, military units of the required strength are employed.

war game

noun

1. a notional tactical exercise for training military commanders, in which no military units are actually deployed
2. a game in which model soldiers are used to create battles, esp past battles, in order to study tactics

verb

1. intr to prepare for battle by considering possible tactics and enemy responses

Word History and Origins

Origin of war game¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

Amid their strengthening ties, Russia and China have held a series of war games in recent years, including naval drills and patrols by long-range bombers over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea.

From Seattle Times

They have held a series of joint war games in recent years, including naval drills and patrols by long-range bombers over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea.

From Seattle Times

It’s all part of a broader regional outreach intended to counter China, which included recent war games with South Korea.

From New York Times

The talks are part of the Biden administration’s diplomatic outreach to counter China, which includes recent war games with Seoul.

From New York Times

It was a slice of Americana rousing one of France’s most modern fighting vessels, beginning another day under Italian command, in war games involving 13 nations.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• dress rehearsal
• tryout