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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.

Friday, the Thirteenth author Lawson, himself a noted stock manipulator who used the mass media of his era to influence markets and make and lose a fortune, called it “the Wall Street hoodoo-day.”

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

A master manipulator, he’s both a playwright and an actor, constructing scenes that might seem impossible to pull off, then delivering a virtuoso performance that leaves everyone flabbergasted by his success.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

In “Escape at Dannemora” and “The Act,” two acclaimed series based on real-life crime stories, Arquette portrayed women who toggle between manipulator and victim.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 20, 2025

“The manipulator is powerful, and the manipulated is weak,” he wrote.

From Slate • Jan. 29, 2025

No wonder Matt had become such a clever manipulator and entrepreneur.

From "Gathering Blue" by Lois Lowry