In effigy Meaning in English
expression
Definition
If someone is punished, burned, or symbolically attacked "in effigy," it means that an image, dummy, or model representing that person is targeted instead of the real person.
Usage & Nuances
"In effigy" is a formal/literary phrase, mostly used in political or protest contexts (e.g., "burned in effigy"). Refers specifically to attacking a figure or dummy, never the real person. Commonly used as 'to burn someone in effigy.' Not used in everyday conversation.
Example Sentences
The protesters burned the leader in effigy.
basic
They hanged a puppet in effigy to show their anger.
basic
A statue of the mayor was destroyed in effigy during the rally.
basic
After the scandal, the CEO was burned in effigy outside the company.
natural
Student protests often include burning political figures in effigy.
natural
Their anger was clear when they destroyed his image in effigy.
natural