'Figurehead' definitions:

Definition of 'figurehead'

From: WordNet
noun
A person used as a cover for some questionable activity [syn: front man, front, figurehead, nominal head, straw man, strawman]
noun
Figure on the bow of some sailing vessels

Definition of 'Figurehead'

From: GCIDE
  • Figurehead \Fig"ure*head`\, n.
  • 1. (Naut.) The figure, statue, or bust, on the prow of a ship. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. A person who allows his name to be used to give standing to enterprises in which he has no responsible interest or duties; a nominal, but not real, head or chief. [1913 Webster]

Synonyms of 'figurehead'

From: Moby Thesaurus