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

Guwahati has proven to be a happy hunting ground for England's spin quartet – having also taken seven wickets against South Africa – and though they travel to Colombo, Indore and Visakhapatnam for the remaining group stage matches, it could be useful should they return to the venue for one of the semi-finals.

From BBC

Australia was Kohli's happy hunting ground and his last visit Down Under in late 2024 grabbed worldwide attention.

From BBC

Para-equestrian has been a successful sport for GB at previous Games and the team will be hoping that the Chateau de Versailles can be another happy hunting ground.

From BBC

The velodrome was a happy hunting ground for the GB team at the Olympics and the Paralympic team will hope for similar.

From BBC

The water was a happy hunting ground for the British team, making the podium in the rowing and diving as GB moved up to 24 medals overall.

From BBC