as in tool
one that is or can be used to further the purposes of another
the novel's characters are not fully fleshed humans, but are simply lay figures strutted out to serve as mouthpieces for conflicting points of view
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lay figure
Noun
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Even with the potential risks, businesses also need to democratize access to AI tools.—
Bob Violino,
CNBC,
24 Sep. 2025 -
Seider popped early in his career, making Detroit’s roster as a 20-year-old and showing a mix of offensive production, defensive tools that outran some dodgy five-on-five results and a rare-for-its-time mean streak.—
The Athletic NHL,
New York Times,
24 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Despite their age, vintage Mauser rifles like the one authorities say was used to kill Kirk are widely available at firearm stores, pawn shops and gun shows, experts said.—
Andrew Blankstein,
NBC news,
20 Sep. 2025
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His congressional pawns could have passed a law outlawing ridicule of the president.—
Matt Robison,
MSNBC Newsweek,
19 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Lay figure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lay%20figure. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.
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