effigy

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

English (IPA): /ˈɛfɪdʒi/

Definitions

• A sculpture or model of a person, often created as a representation.
• A roughly made figure representing a person, used for mockery or protest.

Usage Examples

• "The protesters burned an effigy of the political leader in the town square."
• "The ancient tomb was adorned with an effigy of the deceased king."

Etymology

From Latin effigia ("likeness, image"), derived from effingere ("to form, represent"), from ex- ("out") + fingere ("to shape, fashion").

Synonyms

• Statue
• Figure
• Model
• Representation

Antonyms

• Original
• Entity

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈɛfɪdʒi/
• American English: /ˈɛfədʒi/

Historical Usage

Effigies have been used since ancient times to commemorate leaders, depict religious figures, and as symbols of protest. In medieval Europe, tomb effigies were common, while political effigies became symbols of dissent.

Cultural Nuances

In various cultures, effigies hold different meanings. In some traditions, burning an effigy is a ritual to ward off evil, while in others, it is a form of political protest.

More Information

Effigies remain an important part of artistic, political, and cultural expressions. From wax figures in museums to scarecrows in fields, the concept of effigies continues to evolve across societies.