figurehead

American  

[fig-yer-hed] / ˈfɪg yərˌhɛd /

noun

1. a person who is head heads of a group, company, etc., in title but actually has no real authority or responsibility.

   Most modern kings and queens are figureheads.

2. Nautical. a carved full-length figure or bust built into the bow of a sailing ship.

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figurehead British  

/ ˈfɪɡəˌhɛd /

noun

1. a person nominally having a prominent position, but no real authority

2. a carved bust or full-length figure at the upper end of the stems of some sailing vessels

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Etymology

Origin of figurehead

First recorded in 1755–65; figure + head

Example Sentences

I was able to separate Chavez the man from the movement for which he was a figurehead.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026

And in 2018’s “Pope Francis: A Man of His Word,” Wenders was given rare access to Western religion’s most prominent figurehead as he preached progressive values around the world.

From Salon • Mar. 6, 2026

She became a global figurehead of strength and feminism, and during the 15-week trial in Avignon, supporters stood outside the court every day with signs thanking Ms Pelicot for her courage, and calling for justice.

From BBC • Feb. 14, 2026

That former intern was vacuuming the cup holders in your Yukon two years ago, now everyone thinks he’s the genius, and you’re a figurehead.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 14, 2026

Dr. Moroka, the president-general of the ANC and the figurehead of the campaign, shocked us all by employing his own attorney.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Related Words

• cipher
• nonentity
• puppet