Living Doll, A
Definition: An extremely nice person, amiable and generous. This term encapsulates the warm, fuzzy feelings that we associate with our favorite childhood toys. While “doll” has meant an attractive young woman since the mid-1800s, this idiom from the 1940s can apply to anyone—man, woman, or child—who is kind-hearted and lovable.
Synonyms:
- Sweetheart
- Good egg
- Gem
- Angel
- Kind soul
Antonyms:
- Jerk
- Grump
- Curmudgeon
- Sourpuss
Related Terms:
- Heart of gold
- Softie
- Prince/princess charming
- Friendly giant
Humorous Quotes:
- “He’s a living doll—until his coffee runs out.”
- “She’s such a living doll, she’d apologize to a door for bumping into it.”
Proverbs:
- “Kindness begets kindness.” – Fictitious proverb from the Land of Dolls
- “A gentle heart is tied with an easy thread.”
References in Literature, Books, and Movies:
- The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein – An exemplary tale of generosity.
- Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White – A classic showcasing extraordinary amiability.
- To Sir, With Love (1967 Movie) – Ideal for its premise about a cherished, amiable teacher.
Songs:
- “L.O.V.E.” by Nat King Cole– A sweet song for our lovable dolls.
- “Ain’t She Sweet” by The Beatles – Because all living dolls are!
- “Hey There Delilah” by Plain White T’s – A serenade for that special someone.
Inspirational Thought:
“In a world where you can be anything, be a living doll. Not for the adulation, but because a kind heart is the most precious gift you can offer.”
Fun Quizzes
### Which of these is a real idiom?
- [x] Living doll
- [ ] Walking shampoo bottle
- [ ] Hopping tulip
- [ ] Barking raspberry
> **Explanation:** "Living doll" is a common idiom describing a very nice and amiable person. The others are just whimsical nonsense.
### Which phrase best describes someone who is generous and kind-hearted?
- [ ] A living vine
- [ ] A breathing balloon
- [ ] A kicking stone
- [x] A living doll
> **Explanation:** "A living doll" is the correct phrase here. It’s used to describe someone who is extremely nice, generous, and amiable. The others? Just purely imaginative.
### True or False: 'Living doll' is used exclusively for women.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** Although "doll" once referred primarily to young women, "living doll" can describe any incredibly nice person, regardless of gender.
Farewell by Story T. Spinner: “In your daily acts of kindness, be someone’s living doll. A world embraced by genuine amiability shines brighter than all the stars in the universe.”
