puppet

American  

[puhp-it] / ˈpʌp ɪt /

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.

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puppet British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• puppetlike adjective

Etymology

Origin of puppet

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

Example Sentences

He began tossing things out —a Ping-Pong paddle, a cowboy hat, a hand puppet, swim fins.

From Literature

Critics have said the chaotic puppet stage show is "silly" and "joyous" - but there are concerns too about Kermit's new voice and how the special will translate for a new generation of viewers.

From BBC

Very gently, she turned it over; its body moved stiffly, like a puppet.

From Literature

Just as I was beginning to clear my mind for another night of work in Hut 6, Jarvis comes toward me with his loose puppet strides.

From Literature

Metz’s workshop is directly behind Fairyland’s puppet stage, and it’s a mini marionette museum, filled with books, pictures and, of course, puppets.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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