Putty

/ˈpʌti/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A soft, malleable substance used for sealing gaps, filling holes, or as an adhesive.

The carpenter used putty to fill the cracks in the wooden furniture.

A material used to set glass into frames.

After replacing the window, he applied putty to ensure it was securely held in place.

A term used informally to describe someone easily molded or influenced.

He was like putty in her hands, agreeing to whatever she suggested.

verb

To fill with or apply putty.

She puttied the holes in the wall before painting.

From Middle English 'puttie', likely derived from French 'pâte', meaning paste or dough.

putty in someone's hands

To be easily influenced or controlled by someone.

sealant

A substance used to block the passage of fluids through surfaces or joints.

mastic

A type of adhesive used for attaching tiles or as a sealant.

A person who is easily manipulated.

Don't be such putty; stand up for yourself!

Someone who is soft or weak.