noun / verb
figure
A person present in a particular role or situation.
She is a respected figure in the local arts community.
Etymology
Latin figura meant shape or form. The name of a visible form came to denote a person perceived as occupying a particular position or role.
More examples
- Several leading figures attend the meeting.
- His grandmother figures prominently in his stories.
- She figured in the negotiations from the start.
Forms
figure · figures · figured · figuring
Similar words
- person
- Names any individual, without suggesting prominence or a particular role.
- personality
- Usually suggests someone publicly known for a distinctive character.
- feature
- Means to appear prominently, rather than merely play a part.