dummy
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
A silent person; a person who does not talk.
Register: dated
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
The man's name […] was engraved in the centre, and beneath this, written in ink with the same elaborate precision as the engraving, there was a brief message.
I am a deaf-mute, but I read the lips and understand what is said to me. Please do not shout.
[…] Singer looked very carefully at his lips w
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
A stupid person.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
A term of address.
Register: slang
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “dummy” mean?
A silent person; a person who does not talk.
Is “dummy” formal or informal?
dummy is generally dated.