'Stalking-horse' definitions:
Definition of 'stalking-horse'
(from WordNet)
noun
A candidate put forward to divide the Opposition or to mask the true candidate
noun
Something serving to conceal plans; a fictitious reason that is concocted in order to conceal the real reason [syn: pretext, stalking-horse]
noun
Screen consisting of a figure of a horse behind which a hunter hides while stalking game
noun
A horse behind which a hunter hides while stalking game
Definition of 'Stalking-horse'
From: GCIDE
- Stalking-horse \Stalk"ing-horse`\ (st[add]k"[i^]ng-h[^o]rs`), n.
- 1. A horse, or a figure resembling a horse, behind which a hunter conceals himself from the game he is aiming to kill. [1913 Webster]
- 2. Fig.: Something used to cover up a secret project; a mask; a pretense. [1913 Webster]
- Hypocrisy is the devil's stalking-horse under an affectation of simplicity and religion. --L'Estrange. [1913 Webster]
- How much more abominable is it to make of him [Christ] and religion a stalking-horse, to get and enjoy the world! --Bunyan. [1913 Webster]