stick figure
Definition
Noun: A stick figure is a very simple drawing of a person or animal, typically made with lines to represent the limbs and torso, and a circle or dot to represent the head. It is a minimalist, schematic representation used for its simplicity and ease of drawing.
Usage
The term "stick figure" is used to describe a basic, iconic form of drawing. It is commonly seen in informal sketches, instructional diagrams, animations, and as a universal symbol for a person.
Examples
- The child drew a stick figure of her family.
- The safety manual used stick figures to demonstrate the correct lifting procedure.
- The animation began with simple stick figures before the detailed characters were rendered.
Advanced Usage
- "to be reduced to a stick figure": To be represented in an overly simplistic or reductive manner.
- In the caricature, the complex politician was reduced to a mere stick figure with a large hat.
- In graphic design and user interfaces, a stick figure icon is often used to represent a generic user or person.
Variants and Related Words
- Stickman (n): A common informal synonym for a stick figure, especially a male one.
- He doodled a little stickman in the margin of his notebook.
Synonyms
- Line drawing: A drawing consisting of distinct straight or curved lines.
- Schematic drawing: A diagram that represents elements using abstract, graphic symbols.
Related Phrases
- Stick-figure animation: A style of animation using stick figures as characters.
- The online video was a hilarious stick-figure animation.
Noun
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drawing of a human or animal that represents the head by a circle and the rest of the body by straight lines
