puppet

pup·pet

noun, often attributive \ˈpə-pət\

: a doll that is moved by putting your hand inside it or by pulling strings or wires that are attached to it

: a person or an organization that is controlled by another person or organization

Full Definition of PUPPET

1

a :  a small-scale figure (as of a person or animal) usually with a cloth body and hollow head that fits over and is moved by the hand

b :  marionette

2

:  doll 1

3

:  one whose acts are controlled by an outside force or influence <a puppet ruler>

— pup·pet·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective

Examples of PUPPET

1. a dictator who was perceived as being an American puppet
2. <gave her a puppet with strings for a gift>

Origin of PUPPET

Middle English popet youth, doll, from Middle French poupette, diminutive of *poupe doll, from Vulgar Latin *puppa, alteration of Latin pupa

First Known Use: 1538

Related to PUPPET

Synonyms

action figure, dolly, poppet [Midland], doll

Related Words

rag doll; figure, figurine; handpuppet, marionette