Definition

A model or figure that looks like a person, often used to show dislike or hatred towards that person.

Example

The protesters burned an effigy of the politician to express their anger.

Conversation

Did you see that effigy they burned at the protest yesterday?

Yeah, it was pretty shocking to see it go up in flames.

I wonder who actually made that effigy and what it represented.

I think it was supposed to symbolize their disapproval of the government.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Effigy is derived from the Latin "effigies" (meaning likeness or image), which is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of) and "figere" (meaning to shape or to fix). The word refers to a representation or image of a person, often used in a context where it symbolizes that person.

Memory Tip

Think of an 'image' or 'likeness' ('effigies') of someone that is created 'out of' ('ex-') a material, which helps you remember that an effigy is a representation of a person.

Visually Confused Words