puppet

[puhp-it]

noun

1. an artificial figure representing a human being or an animal, manipulated by the hand, rods, wires, etc., as on a miniature stage.

2. a person, group, government, etc., whose actions are prompted and controlled by another or others.

   Synonyms: instrument, figurehead, pawn

3. a small doll.

4. Machinery.,  poppethead.

puppet

/ ˈpʌpɪt /

noun

1. 1. a small doll or figure of a person or animal moved by strings attached to its limbs or by the hand inserted in its cloth body

   2. ( as modifier )

      a puppet theatre

2. 1. a person, group, state, etc, that appears independent but is in fact controlled by another

   2. ( as modifier )

      a puppet government

Other Word Forms

• puppetlike adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of puppet¹

1350–1400; earlier poppet, Middle English popet, apparently alteration of Middle Low German poppe doll < Late Latin puppa, Latin pūpa doll; -et

Word History and Origins

Origin of puppet¹

C16 popet, perhaps from Old French poupette little doll, ultimately from Latin pūpa girl, doll

Example Sentences

A parody of a traditional newscast, the irreverent concept features dozens of peculiar puppets who populate the fictional town of Titirilquén.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Some of Jim Henson's most memorable creations go under the hammer in California next week, with the first US auction of puppets and memorabilia from the late entertainer's decades-long career.

Read more on Barron's

There’s a submarine landscape of bubbles and jellyfish; a radiant garden of flowers; a battle with flying swords and shields and a swirling snake puppet.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

As she neared the window, she combed her fingers through the cool blue light and watched her hand turn into a ghostly puppet.

Read more on Literature

Cassiopeia’s piping, scolding voice was like a puppet version of Penelope’s.

Read more on Literature

Related Words

• figurehead 
• instrument 
• pawn 
• servant 
• stooge 
• tool