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Translate files Scarecrow
/ˈskɛrˌkroʊ/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A figure, often made of straw and old clothes, set up in fields to deter birds and other animals from eating crops.
The farmer installed a scarecrow in the cornfield to keep the crows away.
A person or thing that serves as a mere pretense or a cover, often to distract or mislead.
The politician was seen as a scarecrow, lacking real power and merely serving the interests of his party.
A person who is physically weak or ineffective.
He looked like a scarecrow after losing so much weight during his illness.
Etymology
The word 'scarecrow' is a compound of 'scare' and 'crow', dating back to the late 19th century.
Common Phrases and Expressions
as useless as a scarecrow
Describes something that is ineffective or serves no purpose.
scarecrow tactics
Strategies aimed at intimidating or deterring others.
Related Words
decoy
An object designed to lure animals or people into a trap.
harvest
The process of gathering mature crops from the fields.
Slang Meanings
A term for someone who is perceived as silly or incompetent.
Don't be such a scarecrow, just go and ask her out!
A reference to someone who stands around doing nothing.
He was just a scarecrow, watching everyone else work at the party.