decoy
UK: ˈdiːkɔɪ | US: ˈdiːkɔɪ
n. 1. A thing or person used to lure or tempt someone or something into a trap or dangerous situation.
n. 2. A model of a bird or other animal used to attract wildfowl or game.
vt. To lure or entice (a person or animal) into a trap or unfavorable situation.
The word "decoy" originated in the early 17th century, derived from the Dutch word "de kooi" (the cage), referring to a cage or trap used to capture wildfowl. The Dutch "kooi" (cage) evolved into "coy" in English, combined with the prefix "de-" (down or away), suggesting the act of luring something away into confinement. Over time, "decoy" expanded to describe any deceptive lure, whether physical (like a fake bird) or metaphorical (a strategic distraction).
The hunters used wooden ducks as decoys to attract real ones.
The spy acted as a decoy to divert attention from the main operation.
The phishing email was a decoy to steal personal information.
She felt like a decoy in her friend’s elaborate prank.
The military deployed decoy vehicles to mislead enemy forces.