Muppet: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a puppet from the famous TV show created by Jim Henson. Also, in British English, it can be a slang term for someone who is behaving foolishly.

• Kermit the Frog is one of the most famous muppets.
• Don't be such a muppet, you left your keys at home again!

A figure moved by hand, strings, or other means to imitate human or animal actions, often used in shows and performances.

• The children loved the puppet show at the fair.
• He skillfully controlled the puppet with strings.

Refers to a person or personality in a story, whether in a book, movie, or play.

• Harry Potter is a beloved character created by J.K. Rowling.
• The main character in the movie was very well-developed.

Generally used to refer to any living being, often a non-human or fantasy animal.

• The forest was full of strange, magical creatures.
• The creature moved quickly through the shadows.

Use 'muppet' in casual or informal conversations, typically in British English. It often refers to someone who's acting silly or making obvious mistakes.

• He's such a muppet for forgetting his own birthday.
• Don't be a muppet, just follow the instructions.

Use 'fool' to describe someone who has acted unwisely or without thinking. It can be used in a wide range of situations, both serious and light-hearted.

• Only a fool would ignore that warning.
• Don't play the fool; you know what you are doing.

Use 'idiot' when describing someone who is exceptionally foolish or lacking in sense. This term is quite harsh and should be used carefully to avoid offending someone.

• He's an idiot for driving drunk.
• What kind of idiot leaves the door unlocked?

Use 'dupe' when you want to indicate someone has been tricked or deceived by someone else. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• He was duped into signing a bad contract.
• She felt like a dupe when she found out the truth.