Figurehead

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈfɪgjəɹˌhÉ›d/, /ˈfɪgəɹˌhÉ›d/

Noun

1. (nautical) A carved figure on the prow of a sailing ship.
2. (by extension) Someone in a nominal position of leadership who has no actual power; a front or front man.
• 1928, Lawrence R. Bourne, Well Tackled! Chapter 2, Evidently he did not mean to be a mere figurehead, but to carry on the old tradition of Wilsthorpe's; and that was considered to be a good thing in itself and an augury for future prosperity.