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Synonyms

manipulator

American  
[muh-nip-yuh-ley-ter] / məˈnɪp yəˌleɪ tər /

noun

  1. a person who manipulates.

  2. a mechanical device for the remote handling of objects or materials in conditions not permitting the immediate presence of workers.


Etymology

Origin of manipulator

First recorded in 1850–55; manipulate + -or 2

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.

Musk has used his social media platform X to go on the offensive with posts that include likening Altman to a "Game of Thrones" character seen as a master manipulator.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

During his ruling, Placer County Superior Court Judge Garen J. Horst said Serafini, 52, was a “liar, manipulator, arrogant and someone who has a loose relationship with the truth.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

He himself became quite the mischievous manipulator of the press.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 5, 2026

Vladimir Putin may have a reputation among some as a ruthless autocrat, a master manipulator of the international scene.

From BBC • Dec. 14, 2025

“Well, well, Miss Podgórska. You are quite the little manipulator after all.”

From "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron

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