mannequin
MAN-uh-kin
/ˈmænɪkɪn/
A life-sized model of a human body, used for displaying clothes in a shop window or store.
Can refer to both the static plastic figures and, historically, to people who modeled clothes (though 'model' is now preferred for humans).
The story behind the word. Derived from the Middle Dutch word 'manneken,' meaning 'little man.' In the 18th century, Parisian tailors used small dolls to show off their latest fashions to wealthy clients; eventually, these 'little men' grew to life-size proportions.
Word relationships
- dummy: Often used in a more technical or less formal sense (e.g., 'tailor's dummy').
- lay figure: An older, more artistic term for a jointed model.
Commonly confused with
- model: A model is a living person; a mannequin is a static figure.
Word family
- mannequins (noun): Plural form of mannequin.
Collocations
- store mannequin
- display mannequin
- dress a mannequin
Example sentences
- "The mannequin in the window was dressed in a stunning red gown that caught the eye of every passerby." Describing a store window display.
- "When dressing a mannequin, ensure that the clothes are pinned neatly at the back to show the best possible fit." A retail training manual.
Memory hook
A 'mannequin' is a 'man-like' twin used for display. Plastic man in the window.
When not to use
Do not use for a small toy figure; use 'doll' or 'action figure' instead.
Fun facts
- Early mannequins were made of wax and could actually melt if the shop window got too hot from the sun.
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