Stool pigeon — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun

Meaning & Definition of Stool pigeon

Stool pigeon (noun)

  1. a person acting as a decoy or informer; especially, a spy sent into a group to report (as to the police) on its activities
  2. a pigeon used as a decoy to draw others within a net

Origin & Etymology of Stool pigeon

probably from the early practice of fastening the decoy bird to a stool

First known use: 1826

Frequently Asked Questions about Stool pigeon

What does "Stool pigeon" mean?

"Stool pigeon" means a person acting as a decoy or informer; especially, a spy sent into a group to report (as to the police) on its activities. As a noun, it is defined as: a person acting as a decoy or informer; especially, a spy sent into a group to report (as to the police) on its activities. It has 2 distinct senses.

Is "Stool pigeon" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Stool pigeon" is a noun.

What is the origin of the word "Stool pigeon"?

"Stool pigeon" comes from probably from the early practice of fastening the decoy bird to a stool. First known use: 1826.