as in tools
one that is or can be used to further the purposes of another
the novel's characters are not fully fleshed humans, but are simply lay figures strutted out to serve as mouthpieces for conflicting points of view
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lay figures
Noun
-
Our editors are big fans of Dyson’s hair tools—and especially so for travel days.—
Charley Ward,
Condé Nast Traveler,
29 Apr. 2026 -
Meanwhile, the company said, more than 8 million advertisers now use at least one of its generative AI creative tools, with particularly strong adoption among small and midsize advertisers.—
Todd Spangler,
Variety,
29 Apr. 2026
Noun
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Most people don’t think children should be pawns in any politician’s culture war.—
Orlando Sentinel,
The Orlando Sentinel,
29 Apr. 2026
-
Most people don’t think children should be pawns in any politician’s culture war.—
Sun Sentinel Editorial Board,
Sun Sentinel,
28 Apr. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Lay figures.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lay%20figures. Accessed 1 May. 2026.
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