Verb
(literally, also figurative) In an armed encounter, to attract gunfire from an adversary, whether unintentionally or deliberately for the purpose of allowing one's allies or colleagues to gain a tactical advantage over the adversary.
(idiomatic, by extension) To create a distraction that allows one's friends, co-workers, or other associates to gain an advantage over the distracted party.
(idiomatic, by extension) To attract criticism or an angry reaction.
Source: en.wiktionary.org