An action figure is a poseable toy that represents a character, usually from movies, TV shows, comic books, or video games. Action figures typically stand between three and twelve inches tall and have movable joints at places like the shoulders, hips, and knees, so you can pose them in different positions: running, fighting, flying, or just standing guard on your shelf.

Today, action figures represent countless characters: superheroes, movie heroes, space explorers, athletes, and fantasy warriors.

What makes action figures different from regular dolls is their focus on adventure and dynamic poses. They often come with accessories like tools or vehicles that connect to the character's story. A Batman action figure might include a grappling hook and cape, while a basketball player figure might come with a tiny ball and jersey.

Collectors prize rare or vintage action figures, some worth thousands of dollars. But for most kids, action figures are tools for imagination: staging epic battles, creating new stories, or simply deciding which hero gets the best spot on the bookshelf.