middle game

American  

noun

Chess.

1. the stage between the opening and the end game, characterized by complicated moves by both opponents with pieces at full strength.

---

middle game British  

noun

1. chess the central phase between the opening and the endgame

---

Etymology

Origin of middle game

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Buehler started the middle game of a three-game series.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 17, 2024

I can’t say what noisy wonders the endgame — or even the middle game — might hold, only two episodes having been released for review.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 20, 2023

Harper was activated off the injured list and was in the lineup at designated hitter when the Phillies took on the Los Angeles Dodgers in the middle game of a three-game series.

From Washington Times • May 2, 2023

Rays: RHP Shane Baz will start the middle game of the series in his 2022 debut.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 10, 2022

I learned about the middle game and why tactics between two adversaries are like clashing ideas; the one who plays better has the clearest plans for both attacking and getting out of traps.

From "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan