lay figure

Definition of lay figurenext
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
  • Scientists use Talos to study how humanoid machines walk, maintain balance, and use tools in complex environments.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 9 Mar. 2026
  • The combination of a weak economy and high inflation is a worst-case scenario for investors because the Federal Reserve has no good tool to fix both problems at the same time.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 9 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Love pawn stars and have been a customer in your shop.
    Emily Trainham, FOXNews.com, 7 Mar. 2026
  • The 1893 silver crash and the following regional depression left the area in decline, turning it into skid row with brothels, speakeasies, pawn shops and widespread crime.
    Jessica Alvarado Gamez, Denver Post, 1 Mar. 2026
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Lay figure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lay%20figure. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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