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Effigy: meaning, definitions and examples

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effigy

 

[ ˈɛfɪdʒi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

figurative representation

An effigy is a sculpture or model of a person, often used in a political context to represent a disliked figure. This representation is sometimes meant to be burned or vandalized during protests or riots to express opposition to the individual's actions or policies. Effigies typically exaggerate certain features of the person they represent to mock or vilify them. Historically, effigies have been created for various reasons, including rituals, education, or as a symbolic gesture of protest.

Synonyms

dummy, figure, image, likeness

Examples of usage

  • They burned an effigy of the dictator during the protest.
  • The artist created an effigy to highlight social issues.
  • Effigies are often seen in political demonstrations.
  • The parade featured an effigy of a famous celebrity.

Translations

Translations of the word "effigy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 efígie

🇮🇳 पुतला

🇩🇪 Figur

🇮🇩 patung

🇺🇦 путка

🇵🇱 efigia

🇯🇵 肖像

🇫🇷 effigie

🇪🇸 efigie

🇹🇷 heykel

🇰🇷 상

🇸🇦 تمثال

🇨🇿 effigy

🇸🇰 efígia

🇨🇳 雕像

🇸🇮 efigija

🇮🇸 mynd

🇰🇿 мүсін

🇬🇪 ფიგურა

🇦🇿 heykəl

🇲🇽 efigie

Word origin

The word 'effigy' comes from the Latin 'effigies', which means 'representation' or 'image'. It is derived from the root 'effigere', meaning 'to shape' or 'to form'. The term has been used in English since the late Middle Ages, referring initially to a painted or sculpted representation of a person. Historically, effigies have played significant roles in various cultures, often created for ceremonial purposes or as a means of expressing dissent. The practice of burning effigies can be traced back to medieval Europe, where they were used in public displays of anger against figures of authority. Over time, the concept evolved and was adopted in various forms around the world, reflecting cultural attitudes towards leadership and societal norms.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,442, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.