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Mannequin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mannequin

[หˆmanษชkษชn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fashion store display

A mannequin is a life-sized model of a human being used to display clothes in a store. It is typically made of plastic, wood, or wax and is used to showcase the latest fashion trends.

Synonyms

dummy, figure, model.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mannequin

This word is often used in fashion and retail industries to refer to life-sized human figures used for displaying clothes and accessories.

  • The store window had several beautifully dressed mannequins.
  • She adjusted the dress on the mannequin to make it look perfect.
dummy

Often used to describe a non-functional replica or a training aid. It can also have a slightly negative connotation when referring to a person lacking intelligence.

  • The crash test dummy helped engineers improve car safety.
  • He felt like a dummy for making such a simple mistake.
model

Although similar to 'mannequin', this term is broader and can refer to human models, scale models of objects, and conceptual representations in various fields such as science or art.

  • She works as a fashion model in New York.
  • The architects built a scale model of the new development.
figure

Broad term that can refer to any representation of the human body, including statues, drawings, or models. It is less specific and can be used in various contexts.

  • The artist sketched a quick figure of a woman.
  • There is a beautiful bronze figure in the center of the park.

Examples of usage

  • The mannequin in the window display was wearing a beautiful evening gown.
  • The fashion designer dressed the mannequin in the latest collection.
Context #2 | Noun

movie production

In the film industry, a mannequin is a life-sized anatomical model used for special effects or stunts. It is often used to stand in for actors in dangerous or difficult scenes.

Synonyms

dummy, figure, model.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mannequin

Used mainly in retail settings to display clothing. It usually refers to a lifelike figure with human body features, often made of plastic or fiberglass.

  • The store arranged the new dresses on mannequins in the window display.
  • She adjusted the hat on the mannequin's head.
dummy

Can be used in various contexts, including retail (similar to a mannequin) or as a stand-in for a human in safety testing and medical training. It can also have a somewhat negative connotation when referring to a person who is considered lacking intelligence.

  • The crash test dummy is essential for car safety testing.
  • They practiced CPR techniques on a medical dummy.
  • Don't be such a dummy; you should have known better.
figure

Often used in a broader sense to refer to shapes or representations of the human form. It can also refer to statuary or artistic representations.

  • The garden is decorated with several stone figures.
  • She sketched a rough figure of a man in her notebook.
model

Used to describe a physical representation or exemplar of something, often in the context of fashion or educational tools. It can also refer to a person who showcases clothing or products.

  • The artist created a small model of the sculpture before starting the full-sized version.
  • She is a model for a well-known clothing brand.
  • The teacher used a model of the solar system to explain the planets.

Examples of usage

  • The stunt coordinator placed the mannequin in the car crash scene.
  • The special effects team used a mannequin to create a realistic explosion.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • In ancient times, Romans used wooden figures to display garments as early as the 2nd century AD.
  • During the Renaissance, artists utilized life-sized mannequins to create sculptures and paintings, enhancing realism.
  • The use of mannequins in retail became widespread in the late 19th century as fashion industries grew.

Cultural Impact

  • Mannequins have appeared in various movies and art forms, notably symbolizing beauty standards and commercialism.
  • Fashion designers sometimes use mannequins to create avant-garde art pieces that challenge traditional views of beauty.
  • In performances and installations, mannequins represent the interplay between fashion, identity, and society.

Modern Usage

  • Today, mannequins come in various shapes and sizes, including plus-size and children, reflecting the diversity of body types.
  • Advanced technology has led to the use of interactive mannequins equipped with sensors to enhance customer experience.
  • Fashion retailers often use mannequins in window displays to attract customers and highlight seasonal trends.

Art and Design

  • Artists such as Alberto Giacometti have famously utilized mannequin-like figures in their sculptures, exploring themes of existence.
  • In the world of design, mannequins serve as blank canvases allowing fashion designers to showcase their creativity.
  • Some fashion schools use mannequins for teaching students the intricacies of tailoring and garment construction.

Origin of 'mannequin'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mannequin' comes from the French word 'mannequin,' which means 'little man' or 'model.'
  • It is believed that the term has its roots in the Dutch word 'manneken,' meaning 'little man.'
  • Originally, mannequins were crafted as artists' models, evolving to serve as fashion displays.

The term 'mannequin' originated from the Dutch word 'maneken', which means 'little man'. Mannequins have been used for centuries in various forms, with the modern concept of a mannequin for displaying clothing in stores evolving in the 19th century. Today, mannequins play a crucial role in the fashion industry and are also used in film production for special effects and stunts.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,076 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.