First Known Use: 1795
Dictionary
lay figure
noun
Definition of LAY FIGURE
1
: a jointed model of the human body used by artists to show the disposition of drapery
2
: a person so compliant as to be likened to a puppet
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of LAY FIGURE
obsolete English layman lay figure, from Dutch leeman
Related to LAY FIGURE
- Synonyms
- cat's-paw, instrument, 1pawn, puppet, tool
Learn More About LAY FIGURE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: layfolkPrevious Word in the Dictionary: lay feeAll Words Near: lay figure
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up lay figure? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).