dummy Definition
- 1a model or replica of a human being, used for medical or educational purposes
- 2a person who is not able to speak or act normally, especially because of a mental or physical condition
- 3a device that appears to be real but is not functional, used as a placeholder or for demonstration purposes
Using dummy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dummy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The CPR dummy is used to teach life-saving techniques.
Example
He was born deaf and mute, so he communicates through sign language and gestures like a dummy.
Example
The software company created a dummy account to test the new features.
Example
She felt like a dummy when she couldn't solve the math problem in front of the class.
Example
The ventriloquist made the dummy appear to talk on its own.
dummy Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with dummy
Example
We did a dummy run of the presentation to make sure everything was working correctly.
Example
He spat the dummy when he found out he didn't get the promotion.
dummy up
to remain silent or refuse to talk about something
Example
The lawyer advised his client to dummy up until they had more information.
Origins of dummy
from Old English 'dumm', meaning 'mute'
Summary: dummy in Brief
The term 'dummy' [ˈdʌmi] refers to a model or replica of a human being, a person who cannot speak or act normally, or a non-functional device used as a placeholder. It can be used in phrases like 'dummy run,' a practice attempt, or 'spit the dummy,' losing one's temper. 'Dummy' can also mean to remain silent, as in 'dummy up.'