D defs.my
Entry 2 senses Webster, 1913

Stalking-horse

/(sta̤k"ĭng-hôrs`)/ · Stalk·ing-horse · IPA
01 n. A horse, or a figure resembling a horse, behind which a hunter conceals himself from the game he is aiming to kill.
  1. 1.
    A horse, or a figure resembling a horse, behind which a hunter conceals himself from the game he is aiming to kill.
  2. 2.
    Something used to cover up a secret project; a mask; a pretense.Fig.:
    “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.