Poser: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used negatively to describe someone who is pretending to be something they are not, often to gain attention or admiration.

• Everyone could tell he was just a poser, trying to impress the new group with fake stories

A more general term for someone who asks questions, and can be used in both casual and formal settings.

• During the debate, the questioner raised some important issues that needed to be addressed

Used when referring to someone who is seeking information or asking questions in a formal or investigative way.

• The scholar was an avid inquirer, always looking for new facts to expand his research

Used in serious or formal settings, such as law enforcement or military, where someone is questioning another person in a thorough and often intense manner.

• The detective acted as the main interrogator, asking the suspect a series of detailed questions

Used often in a derogatory sense to describe someone pretending to be something they are not, especially in fashion or social settings.

• John acts like he's a punk rocker, but he's just a poser.
• All those posers at the party were trying too hard to impress.

Refers to a person who poses for photographs, artworks, or fashion shows professionally.

• She works as a model for several famous fashion brands.
• The artist hired a model to pose for his painting.

Describes the main focus of a photograph, artwork, or discussion. Not limited to people, can refer to objects or themes as well.

• The main subject of the photograph is a blooming flower.
• In his latest painting, the artist chose a rural landscape as his subject.

Commonly used to describe an individual who poses for a portrait, often in the context of traditional art.

• The sitter maintained a relaxed pose for the entire session.
• She was a well-known sitter for many famous portrait artists.