Manipulated
/məˈnɪpjʊleɪtɪd/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo control or influence a person or situation, often in a skillful but unfair or self-serving way; to handle or operate something.
/məˈnɪpjʊleɪt/
To control or influence someone or something cleverly and often unfairly.
He manipulated the evidence to make his case seem stronger.
💡 Simply: Think of it like playing a game where you're trying to get someone to do what *you* want, even if they don't realize it. Like subtly convincing your friend to watch the movie you want.
👶 For kids: Making someone or something do what you want, usually without them knowing it.
More Examples
She manipulated her friends into doing her chores.
The software manipulates the data to produce the required results.
How It's Used
"Politicians often manipulate public opinion through carefully crafted campaigns."
"Some companies manipulate their financial records to appear more profitable."
"Individuals may manipulate others to get what they want."
To handle or operate something with skill and dexterity.
/məˈnɪpjʊleɪt/
To operate or handle something in a skillful way.
The carpenter manipulated the wood to create intricate designs.
💡 Simply: It's like using your hands to skillfully control or work with something, like a robot or a complex machine.
👶 For kids: To use your hands to work with something.
More Examples
She carefully manipulated the dials on the equipment.
The robot was designed to manipulate objects in hazardous environments.
How It's Used
"The technician manipulated the controls of the machine."
"The surgeon skillfully manipulated the instruments during the operation."
Idioms & expressions
manipulate the system
To use loopholes or unfair means to achieve a desired outcome within a system or process.
"He manipulated the system to get a higher grade by exploiting a loophole."
manipulate someone's feelings
To influence another's emotions in order to control their actions or decisions.
"She knew how to manipulate his feelings with her dramatic stories."
From French 'manipuler', from Latin 'manipulus' (handful, a measure), from 'manus' (hand) + 'plere' (to fill). Originally meant to handle or work with the hands.
The word 'manipulate' has existed in English since the 17th century, initially with a meaning focused on manual handling, later evolving to include the idea of influencing and controlling.
Memory tip
Imagine a puppeteer controlling puppets with strings—they manipulate the puppets to do their bidding.
Word Origin
"hand + to fill; to handle with the hand"