paper doll

noun

1. a paper or cardboard, usually two-dimensional, representation of the human figure, used as a child's toy.
2. Usually paper dolls. a connected series of doll-like figures cut from folded paper.

Word History and Origins

Origin of paper doll¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

The artist’s trademark color also features in small videos, populated by paper dolls and giant boots, that can be glimpsed through the structure’s windows.

From Washington Post

Swinton held up the result, which Saillard then cut like a paper doll.

From The Daily Beast

“When I was little, I was a great paper-doll cutter-outer,” Miss Alice remembered not too long ago.

From The Daily Beast

Then she remembered an exceedingly pretty paper-doll which had been sent her by her Cousin Louis Morrison.

From Project Gutenberg

Fold a piece of cambric for the coat, and cut it out as you would for a paper doll, with the fold at the top.

From Project Gutenberg

I nearly went over that time—I had a paper-doll once, named Taglioni.

From Project Gutenberg

If you do not care for any of these things you can play with her, for she makes a charming paper doll.

From Project Gutenberg

Molly's eyes were fascinated by a card full of paper-doll patterns, and their pretty blue, red, and white dresses.

From Project Gutenberg