1. : the No. American Indian paradise conceived as a region to which the souls of warriors and hunters pass after death for the purpose of spending a happy hereafter in hunting and feasting
2. : a choice or profitable area of operation or exploitation
the reef limestones … have been the happy hunting ground for fossil collectors — Journal of Geology
a happy hunting ground for crooks of all nationalities — David Masters
junkyards … have become happy hunting grounds for the man in search of spare parts — G.H.Waltz
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1. the North American Indian heaven, conceived of as a paradise of hunting and feasting for warriors and hunters.
2. a place where one finds in abundance that which one needs or desires, or where one may pursue an activity without restriction: New England attics are happy hunting grounds for antique collectors.
[1830-40, Amer.]
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happy hunting ground or happy hunting grounds,
1. the paradise of the American Indian.
2. any paradise: »
The happy hunting ground for speculators also has booby traps (Newsweek).
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a place where success or enjoyment is obtained
Origin:
originally referring to the optimistic hope of American Indians for good hunting grounds in the afterlife
Useful english dictionary. 2012.