Pulling someone's leg

What are the origin and meaning of the phrase 'Pulling someone's leg?'

There are several theories about the origin. (Search "pull leg" in the archives.) One previous entry:
www.phrases.org.uk bulletin_board 19 messages 1380.html Regards the meaning, Merriam Webster says, a humorous deception or hoax. I can't think of an example. But it is often a made-up story told to a new employee or a new kid in school.

I think a "snipe hunt" would be an example of a "leg pull." See en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Snipe_hunt

Replies