noun a person or thing used to distract or mislead others, especially a fake target used to divert attention from the real one
Decoys are used to distract or mislead enemy forces, often in the form of fake targets or vehicles.
Decoys are used to study or monitor wildlife behavior, such as using decoy animals to observe mating rituals or social interactions.
Decoys are used to deceive attackers by creating fake systems or data to divert their attention from real targets.
Decoys are used to attract animals or birds by mimicking their appearance or behavior, such as decoy ducks for waterfowl hunting.
Decoys are used to attract fish by imitating their prey, such as decoy fish lures.
In writing, a decoy can be used as a plot device to mislead readers or create suspense in a story.
Psychologists may use decoys in research studies to test participants' reactions or behaviors in certain situations.
In military strategy, decoys are often used to distract or mislead the enemy about the location or intentions of the real troops or assets.
Wildlife biologists may use decoys to attract animals for observation or research purposes.
In marketing, decoys are sometimes used to influence consumer choices by presenting alternative options that make a certain product appear more attractive.