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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That legislation, pending action from the governor, bans new data centers through November 2027 and creates a new state council to provide strategic input, facilitate planning considerations and evaluate policy tools to address data centers, Maine Morning Star reported.—
Kevin Hardy,
Baltimore Sun,
20 Apr. 2026 -
For taller products, like full-size shampoo bottles or styling tools, Kinsella suggests a tiered sliding organizer with an open top to accommodate height.—
Jeaneen Russell,
PEOPLE,
20 Apr. 2026
Noun
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According to The Guardian, three military family advocacy organizations reported that the Marines felt like political pawns.—
Chris John Amorosino,
Hartford Courant,
16 Apr. 2026
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They were used as pawns in completely unrelated political battles.—
Letters to the Editor,
The Orlando Sentinel,
15 Apr. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Lay figure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lay%20figure. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.
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