Figurehead (noun)

1. A person who is the nominal leader of an organization or institution, but who has little real power.
2. A carved figure on the prow of a ship, typically representing a human or animal.

Origin:

Mid 18th century: from figure + head.

Examples:

1. The president of the company is just a figurehead, with little real power.
2. The figurehead on the front of the ship is a representation of a mermaid.
3. She was just a figurehead, with no real authority in the organization.
4. The king was just a figurehead, his power had been taken by the Prime Minister.
5. The figurehead is an important part of the ship's decoration and history.