place-hunting1
/ˈpleɪshʌntɪŋ/Chiefly depreciative. Now rare (chiefly archaic )
noun
The action or practice of persistently pursuing government office, especially for reasons of self-interest.
Origin
Early 19th century; earliest use found in Cobbett's Weekly Political Register. From place + hunting.
place-hunting2
/ˈpleɪsˌhʌntɪŋ/Chiefly depreciative. Now rare (chiefly archaic )
adjective
That seeks, or aims for, a desirable place; specifically that persistently seeks a desirable job in government service.
Origin
Early 19th century; earliest use found in William Carew Hazlitt (1834–1913), bibliographer and writer. From place + hunting, after place-hunting, place-hunter.