marionette

noun

mar·​i·​o·​nette ˌmer-ē-ə-ˈnet 

: a small-scale usually wooden figure (as of a person) with jointed limbs that is moved from above by manipulation of the attached strings or wires

Examples of marionette in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The video features key symbols of Chicano culture, from lowriders to marionette dolls and sparkly Lady of Guadalupe statues. — Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 31 July 2026

The 1960 series Supercar marked the debut of supermarionation, an electronic system that makes marionettes more lifelike and convincing on screen. — Erik Pedersen, Deadline, 9 July 2026

About 146 groups, made up of more than 1,400 participants, marched in the parade, with projects ranging from larger-than-life marionette dolls to squads of children in do-it-yourself costumes to mobile re-creations of LACMA’s most iconic art pieces. — Los Angeles Times, 21 June 2026

Clicking and clacking, a tiny wooden marionette lifts an apple to his mouth ad infinitum. — Jessica Kozuka, Travel + Leisure, 10 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

French marionnette, from Middle French maryonete, from Marion, diminutive of Marie Mary

First Known Use

circa 1620, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

marionette

noun

mar·​i·​o·​nette ˌmar-ē-ə-ˈnet 

ˌmer-

: a puppet moved by attached strings or wires