stick figure

noun

1. a diagrammatic drawing representing a human or animal, usually made with one line each for the torso and appendages, and often a circle for the head.

Word History and Origins

Origin of stick figure¹

Probably earlier than 1945–50

Example Sentences

Through the open gates of bases, soldiers were carrying out routine maintenance, stick figures on the lines of tanks, etched against the late afternoon sky.

From BBC

It uses stick figures with Biden’s head, stomping an energy plant with a stick foot.

From Los Angeles Times

Four stick figures are standing in a line: Baba, Mama, me, and Zayd.

From Literature

“I've also found these,” she said, pulling drawings of stick figures, animals and rainbows out of her backpack, some with smiley-face stickers on them.

From Scientific American

You don’t need to be good at drawing — stick figures are OK.

From New York Times