dol.: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Informal (when referring to a person); Neutral (when referring to a toy)
Quick answer
What does “dol.” mean?
a child's toy in the form of a human figure, typically a baby or a person.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
a child's toy in the form of a human figure, typically a baby or a person; also used informally to refer to an attractive woman
In informal contexts, 'doll' can refer to an attractive person (often considered dated or objectifying), or be used as a term of endearment. In manufacturing, 'doll' can refer to a model or a test dummy. In computing, 'DOLL' is an acronym for Data-Oriented Language Lattice.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is broadly similar. The informal use for a person is slightly more common in American English, especially in dated phrases like 'Hey, doll.' British English may use 'dolly' more frequently as a diminutive for the toy.
Connotations
In both varieties, calling an adult woman a 'doll' can be seen as disrespectful or overly familiar, though intent and tone are crucial. It carries stronger connotations of the '1950s gangster' or 'cheesecake pin-up' era in American culture.
Frequency
The toy sense is common in both. The person sense has significantly declined in frequency in formal and polite conversation over the last 50 years.
Grammar
How to Use “dol.” in a Sentence
VERB + doll: play with a ~, dress a ~, make a ~DOLL + VERB: the doll sits, the doll talksDOLL + NOUN: doll house, doll clothes, doll makerVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dol.” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- She was given a beautiful Victorian doll for her birthday.
- He's always been a bit of a china doll, very delicate.
American English
- The little girl wouldn't go anywhere without her favorite doll.
- Back in the day, he'd walk in and say, 'Hello, dolls!' to the secretaries.
verb
British English
- She's in her room dolling herself up for the party tonight.
American English
- They dolled up the storefront with lights for the holiday season.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Potentially in 'toy manufacturing' or 'retail' sectors.
Academic
Rare, except in cultural studies, history of childhood, or gender studies discussing objectification.
Everyday
Common for the toy. The personal term is used cautiously, mostly among older generations or in specific social circles.
Technical
In engineering/automotive: 'crash test doll/dummy'. In computing: as the acronym DOLL.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “dol.”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “dol.”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dol.”
- Using 'doll' for a male person (very rare and context-specific).
- Using 'doll' in a professional context to refer to a female colleague.
- Confusing 'doll house' (US) with 'doll's house' (UK).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be. While historically a term of endearment, it is now often viewed as patronizing, reductive, or objectifying, especially in professional or unfamiliar settings. Context, relationship, and tone are critical.
Traditionally, 'dolls' are associated with toys for girls (e.g., baby dolls, fashion dolls), while 'action figures' are posable figurines, often of superheroes or soldiers, marketed towards boys. The distinction is largely based on marketing and social norms.
It is a phrasal verb meaning to dress someone or something in a smart, stylish, or glamorous way. It can be reflexive: 'She dolled herself up for the date.'
Primarily, yes. 'Dolly' is a diminutive form used by or for children. However, it also has specific technical meanings, such as a wheeled platform for moving heavy items (a 'hand dolly') or a camera moving platform in film ('camera dolly').
a child's toy in the form of a human figure, typically a baby or a person.
Dol. is usually informal (when referring to a person); neutral (when referring to a toy) in register.
Dol.: in British English it is pronounced /dɒl/, and in American English it is pronounced /dɑːl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “doll up (to dress smartly/glamorously)”
- “doll's eyes (an expression or plant)”
- “all dolled up”
- “be living doll (be very kind/agreeable)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a **DOLL** sitting on a **DOOR**step (**DOR**-sound in UK IPA /dɒl/). In the US, it's in the **HALL** (/dɑːl/).
Conceptual Metaphor
ATTRACTIVE PERSON IS A TOY (often with connotations of passivity, decoration, and possession).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'doll' LEAST likely to be considered appropriate?