Stalking-horse

Stalk′ing-horseˊ

(sta̤k′ĭng-hôrsˊ)

,

Noun.

1.

A horse, or a figure resembling a horse, behind which a hunter conceals himself from the game he is aiming to kill.

2.

Fig.:

Something used to cover up a secret project; a mask; a pretense.

Hypocrisy is the devil’s

stalking-horse

under an affectation of simplicity and religion.

L'Estrange.

How much more abominable is it to make of him [Christ] and religion a

stalking-horse

, to get and enjoy the world!

Bunyan.

,

Noun.

A horse, real or factitious, behind which a fowler conceals himself from the sight of the game which he is aiming to kill; hence, a mask; a pretense.

Hypocrisy is the devils stalking-horse, under an affectation of simplicity and religion.

See also: stalking horse

stalking -horse ‎(plural stalking-horses)