Figurehead: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ค
figurehead
[ หfษชษกษrhษd ]
political role
A figurehead is a person who holds a nominal position of power or authority but has little actual power or influence. Figureheads often serve in ceremonial roles and may symbolize a larger organization or group without making meaningful decisions.
Synonyms
frontman, puppet, token leader.
Examples of usage
- The queen serves as a figurehead in the British monarchy.
- In many corporations, the CEO may act as a figurehead while the board makes crucial decisions.
- Though he was the president, he was regarded as a figurehead by his critics.
Translations
Translations of the word "figurehead" in other languages:
๐ต๐น fantoche
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฎเฅเคเฅเคเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช Figurkopf
๐ฎ๐ฉ kepala boneka
๐บ๐ฆ ััะณััะบะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ figurant
๐ฏ๐ต ๅ็ฎไธใฎ้ ญ
๐ซ๐ท figure de proue
๐ช๐ธ tรญtere
๐น๐ท kukla
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ช ๋ชฉ์์ ์ง๋์
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุงุฌูุฉ
๐จ๐ฟ figurant
๐ธ๐ฐ figura
๐จ๐ณ ๅๅก
๐ธ๐ฎ lutka
๐ฎ๐ธ karl
๐ฐ๐ฟ าััััะฐา
๐ฌ๐ช แแแฏแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ kukla
๐ฒ๐ฝ tรญtere
Etymology
The term 'figurehead' originates from the nautical world, where it referred to a carved figure displayed at the prow of a ship. These carvings, often representing gods or mythological beings, were meant to honor and protect the vessel during its voyages. Over time, the term shifted from its maritime roots to describe individuals in a position of power who do not possess genuine authority. The metaphor suggests that, like the ornamental figurehead on a ship, these individuals serve a decorative or symbolic purpose rather than taking significant action or making impactful decisions. This evolution reflects broader social and political changes, where the distinction between appearance and substance became increasingly evident.