lay figure

noun

1. a jointed model of the human body, usually of wood, from which artists work in the absence of a living model.
2. a similar figure used in shops to display costumes.
3. a person of no importance, individuality, distinction, etc.; nonentity.

lay figure

noun

1. an artist's jointed dummy, used in place of a live model, esp for studying effects of drapery
2. a person considered to be subservient or unimportant

Word History and Origins

Origin of lay figure¹

1785–95; lay, extracted from obsolete layman < Dutch leeman, variant of ledenman, equivalent to leden- (combining form of lid limb, cognate with Old English, Middle English lith ) + man man )

Word History and Origins

Origin of lay figure¹

C18: from obsolete layman, from Dutch leeman, literally: joint-man

Example Sentences

The moment a girl marries in New England she is apt to become a drudge, or a lay figure on which to exhibit the latest fashions.

From Project Gutenberg

It really was an artistic pleasure to deal with such beautiful hair, and such a lovely lay figure as Esther's.

From Project Gutenberg

They are married, absolutely married; my par and that painted lay figure you introduced to him, that Mrs. Harrington.

From Project Gutenberg

The mere mention of the rival's name sufficed to reduce Lilly to the position of nothing but a lay figure.

From Project Gutenberg

Olive, humbled and disconsolate, prepared for her voluntary duty as Vanbrugh's lay-figure.

From Project Gutenberg