figure
/ˈfɪɡjɚ/
The word operates on a central theme of 'form'—whether that form is numerical, physical, social, or mental. It bridges the gap between concrete measurement and abstract understanding. When referring to numbers, it carries a sense of precision and officiality. Unlike 'number', which is generic, 'figure' often suggests data used for analysis or evidence in a professional context. In terms of people, it shifts from the physical silhouette (the visual shape) to a social identity (a 'prominent figure'). This creates a transition from how someone looks to what they represent in society. As a verb, it describes the mental process of mapping out a solution. While 'calculate' is purely mathematical, 'figure' (especially with 'out') implies a puzzle-solving element or a journey toward clarity.
Countable when referring to a specific digit ('a six-figure salary') or a prominent person ('a historical figure'). Uncountable when describing the general silhouette of a human body ('her figure is hourglass-shaped').
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Meanings
A number, especially one which forms part of official statistics.
"The latest sales figures show a significant increase in revenue."
The shape or form of a person's body.
"She has a slender figure and maintains it through daily yoga."
A person of a particular kind, typically one who is important or prominent.
"He was a leading figure in the civil rights movement."
Collocations & Compounds
slender figure
Noun collocation: a thin and graceful body shape
She has a slender figure from years of ballet training.
leading figure
Noun collocation: a prominent or influential person in a field
He became a leading figure in the architectural community.
sales figure
Noun collocation: a numerical statistic representing sales volume
The quarterly sales figure exceeded all expectations.
figure the cost
Verb collocation: to calculate the total price of something
We need to figure the cost of shipping before finalizing the order.
figure out
Verb collocation: to solve a problem or understand a situation
It took me several hours to figure out how the new software works.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word figura, meaning a shape, form, or appearance, which evolved from the verb fingere, meaning to mold or fashion. The term entered Middle English via the Old French figure, initially referring to the physical outline of an object or a numerical symbol used in calculation. Over centuries, the meaning expanded from purely geometric or mathematical shapes to encompass the human silhouette and the concept of a prominent individual.