cat's-paw
noun
a person used to serve the purposes of another; tool.
catspaw
-
a variation of
cat's-paw.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Mr Zuma’s first appointment was subsequently ruled “irrational” by the Constitutional Court and overturned after his catspaw was caught lying to a commission of inquiry.
From Economist ● Dec. 16, 2015
It has been criticized for imposing U.S. values, lacking foresight, and being the catspaw of special interest groups.
From Slate ● Nov. 28, 2012
If there's a target it's batted away with logic and a catspaw, but no claws.
From The Guardian ● Sep. 18, 2010
On the last leg, Jahncke's Tempe III drew close in a puff of wind that Ace missed; the catspaw died with the Iselin boat still in front, 1 min.,
From Time Magazine Archive
"Clegane is no more than Lord Tywin's catspaw."
From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin
