dummy

(dŭmˈē)

1. An imitation of a real or original object, intended to be used as a practical substitute.
2. a. A mannequin used in displaying clothes.
   b. A figure of a person or an animal manipulated by a ventriloquist.
   c. A stuffed or pasteboard figure used as a target.
   d. Football A heavy stuffed cylindrical bag used for blocking and tackling practice.
3. A stupid person; a dolt.
4. A silent or taciturn person.
5. A person or an agency secretly in the service of another.
6. Printing
   a. One of a set of model pages with text and illustrations pasted into place to direct the printer. Also called dummy page.
   b. A set of bound blank pages used as a model to show the size and general appearance of a book being published.
7. Games
   a. The partner in bridge who exposes his or her hand to be played by the declarer.
   b. The hand thus exposed.
8. Computer Science A character or other piece of information entered into a computer only to meet prescribed conditions, such as word length, and having no effect on operations.

1. Simulating or replacing something but lacking its function: a dummy pocket.
2. Serving as a front or cover for another: a dummy corporation.
3. Games Played with a dummy.
4. Computer Science Entered or provided only to meet prescribed conditions: a dummy variable.