happy hunting ground

noun

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.

happy hunting ground

noun

1. (in American Indian legend) the paradise to which a person passes after death
2. a productive or profitable area for a person with a particular interest or requirement

   jumble sales proved happy hunting grounds in her search for old stone jars

Word History and Origins

Origin of happy hunting ground¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Idioms and Phrases

A place where one can find or do what one wishes without restriction. For example, The North Shore is a happy hunting ground for antique collectors . This term alludes to the Native American idea of an afterlife where hunters find unlimited game. [Early 1800s]

Example Sentences

He places the weapons of the chase in the grave that they may take them to the Happy Hunting Ground with them.

From Project Gutenberg

You never knew such a happy hunting ground for the chap who goes in for big game.

From Project Gutenberg

At present Arizona is the happy hunting-ground of the unfortunate red man.

From Project Gutenberg

In fact, the county of Pembroke is a happy hunting-ground for the ghost-tracker.

From Project Gutenberg

Hebuterne and the immediate district was the "happy hunting ground" of the division until the final grand hunt in August.

From Project Gutenberg