Definition of manikin

The word "manikin" comes from the Middle English "mene Kyne," which means "a woman's image or figure." In the 16th century, the term began to be applied to artificial humans used for medical and surgical training. These early manikins were crude and lifeless, consisting of simple mechanisms and minimal anatomical detail. As medical knowledge and technology advanced, so too did the sophistication of manikins. By the 19th century, wooden torsoes were being constructed with movable joints and organs that could be removed and examined. These manikins were used in medical schools to teach students how to perform surgeries and diagnose diseases. The term "manikin" has changed in meaning over time, reflecting the changing role of these artificial human figures. Today, the word refers primarily to lifelike models used in medical training, including simulation manikins that can respond to a student's actions and provide feedback. Although the word's origins are rooted in the depiction of women's bodies, "manikin" has come to encompass a broader range of medical applications, reflecting the expanding role that simulation and technology play in medical education and training.