Word: effigy (noun)

Associations

An "effigy" is a model or statue that represents a person, often made to show dislike or protest.

• In protests, people sometimes burn an effigy of a political leader to show anger.
• Museums may display effigies of historical figures made from wood or clay.
• In some cultures, effigies are used in ceremonies or festivals to represent spirits or ancestors.

Synonym: "statue" is similar, but a statue is usually made to honor or remember someone, while an effigy often has a negative or symbolic meaning.

Substitution

You can use "model," "figure," or "doll" instead of effigy, but these words might not carry the same strong symbolic or protest meaning.

• "Model" is more general and can be any small copy.
• "Figure" is similar but less often used for protest.
• "Doll" is usually a toy, so it changes the tone.

Deconstruction

"Effigy" comes from Latin "effigies," meaning "image" or "likeness."

• "Effi-" relates to "ex-" meaning "out" or "from."
• "-gy" is part of the Latin root, not a separate suffix here. It means a representation or image of someone.

Inquiry

• Have you ever seen an effigy in a movie or news? What was its purpose?
• How would you feel if people made an effigy of you in protest?
• Can you think of any festivals or traditions where effigies are important?