Definition & Meaning of "dummy"in English

Dummy

NOUN

a model of a human figure used for display or practice

mannequin

What is a "dummy"?

A dummy is a three-dimensional model used to display clothing designs. Dummies are usually made to mimic the human body, with movable joints that allow for different poses to showcase the garments. They can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and foam, and come in different sizes to represent different body types. Dummies are a valuable tool for clothes designers and dressmakers to visualize how a garment will look on a person and to make necessary alterations before cutting and sewing the fabric. They can also be used in stores and showrooms to display clothing for customers to try on or view.

Examples

Firefighters trained with a dummy to practice rescues.

The special effects team created a dummy that looked exactly like the lead actor.

a person who acts in a foolish or naive way

blockhead

boob

booby

dolt

dope

Examples

He felt like a dummy when he misunderstood the instructions.

She was called a dummy after making an obvious mistake.

a round of ammunition without an explosive charge, used for training or practice

Examples

The instructor demonstrated the safety procedure using a dummy.

The dummy was used to simulate the firing of a real round.

a person who is unable to speak, often used in a derogatory or outdated context

mute

Examples

The term " dummy " was once used to describe someone who could n’t speak.

He was referred to as a dummy because of his inability to communicate verbally.

the partner of the declarer in a bridge game, whose hand is displayed face-up on the table for all players to see after the opening lead

Who is the "dummy"?

In the card game bridge, the dummy is the player who is partnered with the declarer but does not actively participate in playing the hand after the first card is led. Once the opening lead is made, this player's cards are placed face-up on the table for everyone to see. The declarer then plays both their own hand and the dummy's hand, making all decisions for both. The dummy does not make any choices or take part in the strategy but simply follows the rules of the game by letting the declarer control their cards and try to win the required number of tricks.

Examples

The dummy's cards are revealed after the first card is played in a bridge game.

As the declarer 's partner, the dummy can only watch as the declarer plays their hand.

a pacifier used to soothe a baby

pacifier

Examples

The baby dropped the dummy and started crying until it was given back.

She could n't find her baby 's favorite dummy, so she was a bit upset.

a word or phrase that has no real meaning but serves a grammatical function, often used as a placeholder

Examples

" There " in " There is a book on the table " functions as a dummy subject.

" It " in " It is raining " is a dummy subject.