Definition of mannequin

The word "mannequin" originated in the mid-18th century from the French word "mannequin," which means "little man" or "little tailor." This term was coined to refer to tailors' dummies, made of wood or cloth, that were used to showcase clothes and help tailors measure and customize garments for their clients. These dummies were modeled after average-sized men to help tailors create clothes that fit well and flattered the human form. The use of mannequins in displaying clothes became popular in the 19th century with the rise of department stores, leading to the modern-day use of mannequins in fashion, advertising, and interior design.