Manipulate

Definition

To handle, control, or influence in a skillful manner, often in an unfair or deceitful way.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /məˈnɪpjəˌleɪt/
• Respelling: muh-NIP-yuh-layt (with "muh" as in "sofa," "NIP" as in "nip," "yuh" as in "yes," and "layt" as in "late")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /məˈnɪpjʊˌleɪt/
• Respelling: muh-NIP-yuh-layt (with "muh" as in "sofa," "NIP" as in "nip," "yuh" as in "yes," and "layt" as in "late")

In both dialects, "manipulate" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "NIP." The pronunciation is very similar across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "muh-NIP-yuh-layt."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin "manipulus", which means "handful" or "sheaf", from "manus" meaning "hand" and "ple", meaning "to fill". Originally referred to handling or using something with the hands, and evolved to mean influencing or controlling something or someone, often in a devious way.

Derivatives

• Manipulator
• Manipulative
• Manipulatively
• Manipulability
• Manipulation

Synonyms

• Control
• Influence
• Handle

Antonyms

• Release
• Neglect
• Abandon

Usage

Manipulate is used to describe the action of handling tools or objects with skill, as well as the act of influencing people or situations, often with a negative connotation implying deceit or cunning.

• She knew how to manipulate the system to her advantage.

Related Terms

• Alter
• Shape
• Mold
• Tweak
• Adjust

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Manipulate (Verb): To handle, manage, or use, especially with skill, in some process of treatment or performance.
  • Example: "He learned how to manipulate the complex machinery efficiently."

• Manipulate (Verb): To manage or influence skillfully, especially in an unfair manner.
  • Example: "The lobbyist was known to manipulate politicians to secure favorable legislation."

• Manipulate (Verb): To adapt or change (accounts, figures, etc.) to suit one's purpose or advantage.
  • Example: "The accountant was caught manipulating financial records to hide the company's losses."

• Manipulate (Verb): In medicine, to move or control (a part of the body, a joint, etc.) skillfully, especially for therapeutic purposes.
  • Example: "The chiropractor manipulated the patient's spine to alleviate pain."