Merriam Webster’s Befudiom is a word game where teams are challenged to guess selected idiom

Idiom

Idiom is an expression, word, or phrase that has a figurative meaning that is comprehended in regard to a common use of that expression that is separate from the literal meaning or definition of the words of which it is made...

s by acting, shouting, drawing, or spelling them out.

Points are awarded when teammates guess the correct idiom. The number of points awarded for a correct answer is determined by rolling a traditional die numbered from one to six. The various ways of expressing the idiom (acting, spelling, drawing, shouting) are also determined by the roll of a separate die with icons corresponding to the various means of expressing the idioms.

The name “Befudiom” combines the words “befuddled” and “idiom,” alluding to the game’s root in mixed-up meanings. Idioms are phrases and slang terminology whose meanings cannot be understood when taken literally. These expressions, such as “holy cow

Holy cow (expression)

"Holy cow!" is an exclamation of surprise used mostly in American and Canadian English.From the Dictionary of American Slang :...

” and “kick the bucket

Kick the bucket

To kick the bucket is an English idiom that is defined as "to die" in the Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue . It is considered a euphemistic, informal, or slang term. Its origin remains unclear, though there have been several theories.-Origin theories:...

” carry meanings and cultural implications that only a native speaker would understand.

The game was invented by Wendy Hampton, an African-American single-mother from Atlanta, Ga., who was looking to entertain her bored daughter. The idea of the game was pitched at a casting call for the national PBS show, Everyday Edisons

Everyday Edisons

Everyday Edisons is a reality TV show that airs on PBS, featuring different inventors who are trying to launch their inventions in the marketplace. In this regard, it's similar to American Inventor, but with key differences. For one, the contestants don't face elimination...

. Everyday Edisons then documented the creation and overall evolution of the game.