manipulative

adjective

ma·​nip·​u·​la·​tive mə-ˈni-pyə-ˌlā-tiv 

-lə-

: of, relating to, or performed by manipulation

Osteopathy emphasizes manipulative techniques to correct abnormalities thought to cause disease and inhibit recovery.

—Carol L. Otis et al.

especially : serving or intended to control or influence others in a deceptive and often unfair or selfish way

a clever and manipulative child

manipulative behavior

Simpleminded as his critics found his ideas and remarks, cynical and manipulative as he may have been in actuality, he seemed to believe every word he said.

—Arthur Miller

manipulatively adverb

manipulativeness noun

Examples of manipulative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

No 1 Emiliano Martinez’s antics — a few of the goalkeepers have shown their dark, disruptive and manipulative side. — Geir Jordet, New York Times, 15 July 2026

Bryce debuted on As the World Turns in 1982 as the charming but oft self-destructive Craig Montgomery, known for his manipulative schemes and unlucky romances. — Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 13 July 2026

Rather than being the abusive, manipulative and ultimately homicidal husband that prosecutors alleged, Sabatini described Millete as a tragic figure who was being emotionally and psychologically abused and gaslit by his cheating wife. — Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 July 2026

On the other, gig workers face manipulative algorithmic payouts, erratic schedules and the skyrocketing costs of keeping their cars on the road. — Christopher S. Tang, The Conversation, 8 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for manipulative

• accommodative
• accumulative
• adjudicative
• administrative
• affiliative
• agglutinative
• ameliorative
• appreciative
• assimilative
• associative
• authoritative
• collaborative