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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The proposal also requires Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for the month-long period – arguably one of Iran’s strongest tools of leverage against the United States in the ongoing war.—
Karissa Waddick,
USA Today,
11 May 2026 -
Gray stone, wooden beams, iron tools.—
Ligaya Mishan,
New York Times,
11 May 2026
Noun
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Even everyday household items—including coffee makers, crockpots and blenders—are showing up at pawn counters.—
ByBryan Robinson,
Forbes.com,
15 May 2026
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Nearly 30 guns were stolen from an Overland Park pawn shop in a Sunday morning burglary, and authorities are offering thousands of dollars in reward money for information about the incident.—
Nathan Pilling,
Kansas City Star,
12 May 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 16 May. 2026.
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