figurine
UK: ˈfɪɡəriːn | US: ˈfɪɡjəriːn
n. a small ornamental statue or model of a human or animal figure, often decorative or collectible.
The word "figurine" originates from the Italian "figurina," a diminutive of "figura" (figure), derived from Latin "figura" (shape, form). The suffix "-ine" (from Italian/Latin "-ina") conveys smallness or delicacy. Thus, "figurine" literally means "a small figure," reflecting its use for miniature sculptures. The term entered English in the 19th century, emphasizing artistic or decorative small-scale representations.
She collects porcelain figurines of birds.
The museum displayed ancient clay figurines from Mesopotamia.
A delicate figurine of a dancer stood on the shelf.
He gifted her a crystal figurine for her birthday.
The artist sculpted miniature figurines for the dollhouse.