The campers sent the new kid on a silly snipe hunt.
snipe hunt
idiomA prank in which a gullible victim is sent off on a fruitless search for a nonexistent item.
Origin
disputed origin* snipe + hunt * Although snipe are an actual family of birds, a snipe hunt was originally a quest for an imaginary creature whose description varies.
We realized it was a snipe hunt when we spent hours looking for an animal that does not exist.
The senior staff orchestrated an elaborate snipe hunt, sending the unsuspecting intern into the woods to capture a creature that was merely a figment of their imagination.
- 01
dog in the hunt
Something that may lead to gain, depending on the outcome; a position for which to campaign or cheer.
- 02
hunt where the ducks are
To seek opportunities or results in situations or places where they are most likely to be found.
- 03
run with the hare and hunt with the hounds
To support both sides of an argument.
- 04
thrill of the hunt
The anticipation and excitement experienced while searching for something that is difficult to obtain.