# statue

/ˈstæˌtʃu/ (US) · /stˈætʃuː/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/statue
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. a work of art

noun · CEFR B1

a large art object made of stone, metal, or wood that looks like a person or animal.

For teachers: a three-dimensional work of art representing a human, animal, or mythical figure, usually created by sculpting, carving, or casting.

- The city built a bronze statue of the famous singer in the main square.
- The marble statue stood in the center of the atrium, its intricate details preserved despite centuries of exposure to the elements.

### 2. to make into a statue

verb · CEFR C2 · Literary

to turn something into a statue or to make a statue of someone.

For teachers: to represent or form into a statue; to immortalise a subject through sculpture.

- The poet described how the cold wind seemed to statue the hikers in place.
- In his epic verse, the writer sought to statue the fallen heroes in the minds of the readers, rendering their sacrifice permanent through language.

Usage: This verb use is rare and typically found in poetic or highly formal contexts.

## Examples

- The bronze statue stands in the middle of the park.
- The city recently cleaned the marble statue of the founder to prepare for the anniversary celebration.
- Towering over the harbor, the ancient statue served as both a landmark for sailors and a powerful symbol of the city's maritime dominance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.