Street
stool pigeon
What does stool pigeon mean?
A stool pigeon (or stoolie) is an informer, often one who cooperates with police to spy on other criminals. It carries strong connotations of betrayal.
"The DA's whole case rested on a stool pigeon nobody in the joint would forgive."
Origin
American, 19th century; from decoy 'stool pigeons' used by hunters.
Frequently asked questions
What is a stool pigeon?
A stool pigeon is a police informer, often one who cooperates with authorities to spy on other criminals. The term carries strong connotations of betrayal.
Where does 'stool pigeon' come from?
It is 19th-century American slang, drawn from the decoy 'stool pigeons' hunters once used to lure other birds.
Is 'stool pigeon' an insult?
Yes. It is a strongly derogatory label for an informer, implying betrayal.
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