Definition

1. Noun:
   • A decoy: A dummy pigeon or other bird used to lure other birds into a trap or within shooting range.
   • An informer: Someone, especially a criminal, who acts as an informer or decoy for the police, betraying associates.

Usage

• The term "stool pigeon" is used to describe a person who provides information to authorities, often secretly. It carries a strong negative connotation of betrayal.
• It can also refer literally to the decoy bird used by hunters.

Examples

• As an informer:
  • The gang discovered he was a stool pigeon for the FBI.
  • They used a stool pigeon to get information about the robbery plans.
• As a decoy bird (less common in modern usage):
  • The hunter set up a stool pigeon to attract the flock.

Advanced Usage

• The term is informal and often used in criminal or police contexts. It is synonymous with being a "snitch" or "informant," but with historical roots in hunting.

Variants and Related Words

• Stoolie (n): A slang shortening of "stool pigeon," meaning an informer.
  • The mob boss was worried there was a stoolie in his organization.

Synonyms

• Informer: A person who informs on another to the authorities.
• Decoy: A person or thing used to lure someone into a trap.
• Snitch: A slang term for an informer.
• Canary: Slang for an informant, often one who "sings" (provides information).

Related Idioms

• To turn stool pigeon: To become an informer for the authorities.
  • Facing a long sentence, he decided to turn stool pigeon.

Noun

1. a dummy pigeon used to decoy others
2. someone acting as an informer or decoy for the police