There is another meaning, akin to "needle in the haystack". This is the only meaning I was aware of until I used the phrase to describe my then-girlfriend. She was only aware of the meaning you reference. It was awkward, but we're now married.
Over the years I have asked many other people about this phrase when it came up in conversation. Most of my acquaintances only knew of the "needle in a haystack" meaning. These people went to Berkeley, Stanford, etc. and worked at FAANG or are doctors/lawyers.
I have wondered if it's a geographic thing — most of these people have spent most of their lives in California. Perhaps the east coast is different?
Over the years I have asked many other people about this phrase when it came up in conversation. Most of my acquaintances only knew of the "needle in a haystack" meaning. These people went to Berkeley, Stanford, etc. and worked at FAANG or are doctors/lawyers.
I have wondered if it's a geographic thing — most of these people have spent most of their lives in California. Perhaps the east coast is different?