maumet

Also mam·met

[maw-mit]

noun

1. British Dialect.

   1. a doll, puppet, scarecrow, or other figure built to resemble a human being.

   2. an empty-headed or mindless person.

2. Obsolete.,  an idol; a false god.

maumet

/ ˈmæmɪt, ˈmɔːmɪt /

noun

1. obsolete,  a false god; idol

2. dialect,  a figure dressed up, such as a guy or scarecrow

Other Word Forms

• maumetry noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of maumet¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English, from Old French mahommet “idol,” special use of Mahommet, the Arab prophet Muhammad, whose image was mistakenly thought to be an object of worship

Word History and Origins

Origin of maumet¹

C13: from Old French mahomet idol, literally: the prophet Mohammed, from the belief that his image was worshipped

Example Sentences

Its earlier form is maumet, meaning "idol," and it is a contraction of Mahomet.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

Duvivier was called to Bougie; Maumet was compelled by his wounds to return to Paris; Captain Lamoricière was, therefore, appointed chief of the united battalion, having given proof of his capacity in every way,—whether as soldier, linguist, or negotiator,—being a wise and prudent man.

Read more on Project Gutenberg