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Manipulator: meaning, definitions and examples

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manipulator

 

[məˈnɪpjʊleɪtə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

person who controls or influences others

A manipulator is someone who uses deception, persuasion, or coercion to control or influence others for their own benefit. They often employ tactics such as guilt-tripping, gaslighting, and playing mind games to manipulate people into doing what they want.

Synonyms

controller, influencer, user.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
manipulator

Refers to a person who skillfully controls or influences others, often in an unfair or deceitful way. It has a negative connotation.

  • She is a master manipulator, always finding a way to get what she wants.
  • He felt like a pawn in the hands of a manipulator.
controller

Denotes someone who directs or regulates something. It is often used in organizational or technical settings without necessarily a negative connotation.

  • The traffic controller directed the flow of cars efficiently.
  • She is the financial controller at our company.
influencer

Often refers to someone who has the ability to affect or sway others' decisions, typically in marketing or social media contexts. It can be neutral or positive, depending on the situation.

  • As a social media influencer, he has a large following on Instagram.
  • Her work as an influencer helped the brand reach a wider audience.
user

Refers to someone who utilizes or takes advantage of something, often a service or product. When referring to a person exploiting others, it has a negative connotation.

  • The software is very user-friendly.
  • He was just a user, always taking advantage of others' kindness.

Examples of usage

  • The manipulator convinced her friends to lend her money by making up a sob story.
  • He's a master manipulator who always finds a way to get what he wants.
Context #2 | Noun

mechanical device for handling objects

In the context of machinery, a manipulator is a mechanical device used for handling objects, typically in industrial settings. It can be used to lift, move, rotate, or position objects with precision and efficiency.

Synonyms

manipulation device, robotic arm.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
manipulator

In the context of machinery or robotics, refers to a device that moves and positions objects. Usually found in industrial applications.

  • The assembly line robot uses a manipulator to place components accurately.
  • This type of manipulator can handle delicate parts without damaging them.
robotic arm

Specifically refers to a type of mechanical arm used in robotic applications for tasks such as assembly, welding, or surgery. Common in both industrial and medical fields.

  • The robotic arm performed the surgery with precision and minimal invasion.
  • In the automotive factory, a robotic arm is used to assemble car parts efficiently.
manipulation device

Describes an apparatus designed for precise mechanical movements. Commonly used in industrial or scientific settings.

  • The new manipulation device allows for more accurate control during experiments.
  • Engineers developed a sophisticated manipulation device to handle hazardous materials safely.

Examples of usage

  • The robotic manipulator in the factory can lift heavy objects with ease.
  • The manipulator arm is controlled by a computer program.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Latin 'manipulare', meaning to handle or manage.
  • The root 'manus' means hand, suggesting control or handling something with care.
  • The term evolved in the 20th century to include emotional and social influence.

Psychology

  • Manipulation can involve tactics like gaslighting, where one person makes another doubt their perceptions.
  • Psychologists often discuss 'psychological manipulation' as a way for individuals to influence others for personal gain.
  • Personality traits such as narcissism are often linked to manipulative behaviors, highlighting deeper issues.

Pop Culture

  • In films, manipulators are often portrayed as villains who pull the strings behind the scenes.
  • TV shows feature characters with manipulative traits in various genres, from drama to comedy, often to create tension.
  • Books often explore the theme of manipulation, leading to moral dilemmas and character development.

Literature

  • Shakespeare's plays frequently depict characters who manipulate others for political power or personal vendettas.
  • Classic novels like 'Pride and Prejudice' show characters using social norms to achieve their goals through manipulation.
  • Contemporary literature examines manipulation in relationships, often highlighting emotional consequences.

Science

  • In technology, 'manipulators' can refer to devices or tools that allow users to control machines or software effectively.
  • Robotics has devices called manipulators that simulate human hand movements to perform tasks.
  • The psychological impact of manipulation is studied in human-computer interaction, where design can influence user behavior.

Translations

Translations of the word "manipulator" in other languages:

🇵🇹 manipulador

🇮🇳 हेरफेर करने वाला

🇩🇪 Manipulator

🇮🇩 manipulator

🇺🇦 маніпулятор

🇵🇱 manipulator

🇯🇵 操縦者 (そうじゅうしゃ)

🇫🇷 manipulateur

🇪🇸 manipulador

🇹🇷 manipülatör

🇰🇷 조종자 (jojongja)

🇸🇦 مُتَلاعِب

🇨🇿 manipulátor

🇸🇰 manipulátor

🇨🇳 操纵者 (cāozòng zhě)

🇸🇮 manipulator

🇮🇸 manipulator

🇰🇿 манипулятор

🇬🇪 მანიპულატორი

🇦🇿 manipulyator

🇲🇽 manipulador

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,644, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.