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Muppet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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muppet

[ˈmʌpɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

popular character

A muppet is a puppet character created by Jim Henson. These characters are typically seen on the television show Sesame Street and The Muppet Show.

Synonyms

character, creature, puppet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
muppet

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!
puppet

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.
character

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.
creature

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.

Examples of usage

  • Kermit the Frog is a famous muppet character.
  • Miss Piggy is another beloved muppet.
Context #2 | Noun

foolish person

Informally, a muppet can also refer to a foolish or gullible person.

Synonyms

dupe, fool, idiot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
muppet

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.
fool

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.
idiot

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?
dupe

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.

Examples of usage

  • Don't be such a muppet and fall for that trick.
  • He always acts like a muppet in front of his crush.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The Muppets became hugely popular in the 1970s with their own TV show, leading to movies and merchandise.
  • Characters like Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy have become iconic, representing a blend of humor and heart.
  • The Muppets have crossed over into various media, including musical specials, Broadway shows, and theme park attractions.

Psychology

  • Research shows that puppets can help children express emotions and develop communication skills.
  • The playful nature of Muppets can evoke laughter and joy, making them effective in educational settings.
  • Engaging with puppet characters can foster imagination and creativity in both children and adults.

Literature

  • The Muppets have inspired a variety of books, showcasing tales that blend adventure with humor.
  • Their stories often teach valuable lessons about friendship, kindness, and standing up for what is right.
  • The Muppet characters have appeared in adaptations of classic tales, making literature accessible and entertaining for kids.

Television

  • The Muppet Show, which aired from 1976 to 1981, revolutionized the variety show format with its mix of puppetry, comedy, and celebrity appearances.
  • The series earned multiple Emmy Awards, indicating its critical acclaim and impact on the entertainment industry.
  • Muppet characters often appeared on children's educational programs, encouraging learning through fun interactions.

Origin of 'muppet'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'muppet' was invented by puppeteer Jim Henson, a blend of 'marionette' and 'puppet'.
  • The term first appeared in 1955, describing the unique style of puppets created by Henson.
  • Initially, Henson used the word as a way to identify his distinctive puppet characters, setting them apart from traditional puppets.

The term 'muppet' was coined by Jim Henson as a combination of the words 'marionette' and 'puppet'. The first muppet characters appeared in the 1950s, and they quickly gained popularity through various television shows and movies. The Muppets, created by Henson, became iconic figures in popular culture, known for their humor, creativity, and charm.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,537, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.