Definition

An object or animal used to attract or lure others, often for hunting or to mislead someone.

Example

The hunter set up a decoy to attract the ducks to his location.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a decoy used for hunting?

Yeah, I saw one at the lake last weekend; it looked really realistic!

I heard they can be super effective at attracting birds.

Absolutely! A good decoy can make all the difference in a successful hunt.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To attract or trick someone or something into a trap or a specific place using a fake object or person.

Example

The hunters used a fake bird to decoy the real ones into their nets.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see that movie where they decoy the enemy with fake plans?

Yeah! It was clever how they tricked everyone.

I love how they used technology to decoy their targets.

Root Explanation

Decoy originates from the Middle French word 'decoyer', meaning to lure or entice. The term is derived from 'de-' (meaning from) and 'coyer' (meaning to set a trap or lure). Thus, a decoy is something that is used to lure or attract, often in a deceptive manner.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is used to 'lure' ('coyer') someone 'from' ('de-') their original path — that's why a decoy is something that attracts attention away.

Visually Confused Words