Synonyms for

Puppet

Verb / ˈpʌpʌt / / ˈpʌpɪt / Another word for puppet — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a movable model of a person or animal that is used in entertainment and is typically moved either by strings controlled from above or by a hand inside it.

Synonyms & similar words

tool creature marionette marionette doll mannequin figure effigy model statue toy plaything fake imitation copy replica simulacrum dummy stand-in substitute proxy surrogate patsy

Synonyms by register

Formal

figurehead nominee representative

Informal

stooge pawn tool minion

Literary

marionette automaton

Antonyms

leader master controller ruler sovereign autocrat

Common collocations

  • puppet government
  • puppet state
  • puppet master
  • pull the strings
  • puppet show
  • hand puppet
  • finger puppet
  • puppet theatre

Word family

noun puppet
verb puppet
adjective puppetlike

Usage note

The word 'puppet' can refer to a toy operated by strings or rods, or metaphorically to a person or entity controlled by another. The informal synonyms often carry a negative connotation of being easily manipulated.

Example sentences

  1. My little brother loves playing with his puppet theater.
  2. The puppet show at the fair was so entertaining.
  3. The puppeteer was able to make the puppet dance with the strings.
  4. The puppet's mouth and eyes can be moved with a hand inside it.
  5. The puppet's costume was beautifully made.

Quotes

  • All the world's a puppet show, And all the men and women merely puppets.
  • A puppet is always a doll, but a doll is not always a puppet.
  • A puppeteer is a magician who brings life to an inanimate object.

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