stoolpigeon

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stoolpigeon

A detective uses a stoolpigeon to gather information in a crowded market.

Definition

Noun: 1. An informer for the police: A person who secretly provides information about criminal activities to law enforcement. 2. A decoy or lure: A person used by the police to trap others, especially by pretending to participate in a crime.

Usage

The term "stoolpigeon" is used to describe a person who betrays associates by giving information to authorities. It carries a strong negative connotation of treachery and deceit. * The gang discovered their former friend was a stoolpigeon for the FBI. * The police used a stoolpigeon to gain the trust of the smuggling ring.

Advanced Usage
  • Historical Context: The term originates from the practice of using a tethered pigeon as a decoy to lure other birds. This metaphor was then applied to a person used to lure criminals into a trap.
  • Figurative Use: It can sometimes be used more broadly to describe any informant or betrayer in a non-police context, though this is less common.
    • He was accused of being a corporate stoolpigeon, leaking secrets to a rival company.
Variants and Related Words
  • Stool pigeon: An alternative, two-word spelling of the same term.
  • Stoolie (n.): A common slang abbreviation for "stoolpigeon."
    • The mob boss vowed to find the stoolie.
Synonyms
  • Informer: A neutral term for someone who provides information.
  • Snitch: A slang term with strong negative connotations.
  • Canary: Slang, often in the phrase "sing like a canary," meaning to inform.
  • Decoy: A person or object used to trick or lure someone.
Related Idioms
  • To turn stool pigeon: To become an informer for the police.
    • Facing a long prison sentence, he decided to turn stool pigeon.
stoolpigeon

A detective uses a stoolpigeon to gather information in a crowded market.

Noun
  1. someone acting as an informer or decoy for the police

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