decoy
UK[ˈdiːkɔɪ]US[ˈdiːkɔɪ]
n
A person or thing used to trick or lure someone into a trap or into doing something
n
A model of a bird or other animal used to attract wildfowl or game within shooting range
v
To lure or entice by using a decoy
Etymology
The word 'decoy' entered English in the early 17th century, originally referring to a pond with netted arms for catching wildfowl. Its origins are obscure but it is likely derived from the Dutch term 'de kooi', meaning 'the cage' or 'the decoy', referring to such a trap. The Dutch word 'kooi' itself comes from Latin 'cavea', meaning 'cage'. The English spelling was anglicized from the Dutch phrase, and the meaning broadened from the physical trap to any person or object used to lure or entice others into a trap or dangerous situation.
Analysis
The word 'decoy' is a simplex loanword. Its spelling and form do not allow for segmentation into productive English morphemes based on its current spelling.
Examples
The police used an unmarked car as a decoy to catch the thieves.
Hunters placed wooden duck decoys on the surface of the pond.
He was decoyed into the alley where his attackers were waiting.