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Figurines Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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figurines

[หˆfษชษกjษ™riหnz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

collectible items

Figurines are small sculptures or statues, often representing characters from movies, TV shows, or video games. They are popular among collectors and are often displayed in glass cabinets or on shelves.

Synonyms

miniatures, models, statuettes.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
figurines

Used to describe small three-dimensional figures that are often collected or used as decorative items. Figurines can be made of various materials like ceramic, plastic, or metal and depict a wide range of subjects from animals to characters.

  • She collects porcelain figurines from different countries.
  • The shelf was filled with delicate figurines of fairy tale characters.
statuettes

Small statues, often artistic and elegant, used primarily for decoration. Statuettes usually represent people, animals, or abstract forms and are often made of materials like bronze, marble, or ceramic.

  • She displayed a bronze statuette on her mantelpiece.
  • The art gallery showcased several modern statuettes by famous sculptors.
miniatures

Refers to very small replicas of objects, often detailed and used in hobbies, such as model railroading, dollhouses, or tabletop gaming. Miniatures emphasize the small scale of the objects.

  • He painted miniatures of soldiers for his war game.
  • The miniature furniture added a realistic touch to the dollhouse.
models

Describes scaled-down versions or replicas of larger objects, such as vehicles, buildings, or machinery, often used for educational, display, or hobby purposes. Models usually imply a high level of detail and accuracy.

  • The museum has an impressive model of the Titanic.
  • He spent weeks building a model airplane from a kit.

Examples of usage

  • Her collection of anime figurines is impressive.
  • The figurines of superheroes were selling out quickly at the comic-con.
Context #2 | Noun

ornamental objects

Figurines can also refer to small ornamental objects used for decoration. They come in various shapes and sizes, such as animals, angels, or mythical creatures.

Synonyms

decorative objects, ornaments, trinkets.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
figurines

Use when referring to small statues or models, often of people or animals, that are typically made from materials like ceramic, wood, or plastic. They are often collected as a hobby.

  • She has a collection of porcelain figurines that she displays in her living room.
  • The shelf was lined with figurines, each meticulously hand-painted.
decorative objects

A broader term used to describe any item used mainly for decoration rather than utility. This can include vases, lamps, and more.

  • Her house is filled with decorative objects from her travels.
  • He rearranged the decorative objects on the mantelpiece to create a more balanced look.
ornaments

Typically used to describe small decorative items, often seasonal such as Christmas tree ornaments or items used to beautify a space or object.

  • They hung ornaments on the Christmas tree every year.
  • The garden was filled with various ornaments, including wind chimes and bird baths.
trinkets

Refers to small items that are primarily decorative and often of little monetary value. These are often souvenirs or inexpensive gifts. The term can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of worth or value.

  • She has a drawer full of trinkets she has collected over the years.
  • He bought some inexpensive trinkets from the street vendor.

Examples of usage

  • The porcelain figurines on the mantelpiece added a touch of elegance to the room.
  • She had a collection of crystal figurines on display in the living room.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The use of small sculptures dates back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations like the Egyptians creating figurines for rituals.
  • In China, figurines have been used for over 2,000 years, often crafted from materials like jade or porcelain, reflecting cultural beliefs.
  • The term 'figurine' originates from the French word 'figurine', meaning little figure, solidifying its ties to art and decoration.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, figurines serve as talismans or charms believed to bring luck and protection.
  • Some Native American tribes create figurines from clay to tell stories of their heritage and traditions.
  • Japanese Kokeshi dolls are traditional wooden figurines, each with unique designs representing different regions, cherished as souvenirs and gifts.

Pop Culture

  • Collecting figurines has become a popular hobby, with many fans loving to showcase their collections from franchises like Star Wars and Marvel.
  • In anime culture, figurines often represent beloved characters, allowing fans to own a piece of their favorite series.
  • Modern video games feature collectible in-game figurines that players can display, merging gaming with art.

Artistry and Crafting

  • The art of crafting figurines can span various techniques, from hand-sculpting clay to precision 3D printing.
  • Many sculptors incorporate whimsical designs, transforming everyday concepts into magical figurines, bridging fantasy and reality.
  • Figurines can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, like salt and pepper shakers shaped like animals.

Psychology

  • Owning figurines can evoke nostalgia, often tied to childhood memories or cherished moments.
  • Psychologists say collecting objects like figurines can provide comfort and a sense of belonging for many individuals.
  • Figurines may also serve as a method of storytelling, helping individuals express their identities and experiences visually.

Origin of 'figurines'

The word 'figurine' originated from the French word 'figurine', which is a diminutive form of 'figure', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'figura' meaning 'shape' or 'form'. Figurines have been used for centuries as decorative objects, religious artifacts, and collectibles, with examples found in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and China.

See also: disfigure, figuration, figurative, figures, figurine, prefigure, transfiguration.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,810, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.