Puppet

/ˈpʌpɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A figure of a person or animal that is moved by strings or controlled by a puppeteer.

The children watched in delight as the puppet danced across the stage.

A person or group that is controlled by another, often used metaphorically.

The government was seen as a puppet of the corporations.

A person who appears to be performing independently but is influenced by others.

He felt like a puppet in the negotiations, with his boss pulling all the strings.

Middle French 'poupette', a diminutive of 'poupe', meaning little doll.

puppet government

A government that is controlled by a foreign power.

to pull someone’s strings

To control someone’s actions or behavior.

puppet master

A person who manipulates others behind the scenes.

marionette

A puppet controlled from above using wires or strings.

ventriloquist

An entertainer who appears to throw their voice while controlling a puppet.

doll

A small model of a human figure used as a child's toy.

A person who is easily manipulated or controlled.

Don't be a puppet; think for yourself!

Someone acting without independent thought, often for someone else's benefits.

He's just a puppet for the CEO.