manipulative
adjective
ma·nip·u·la·tive
mə-ˈni-pyə-ˌlā-tiv 
-lə-
: of, relating to, or performed by manipulation
Osteopathy emphasizes manipulative techniques to correct abnormalities thought to cause disease and inhibit recovery.—
Carol L. Otis et al.
Carol L. Otis et al.
especially
: serving or intended to control or influence others in an artful and often unfair or selfish way
a clever and manipulative child
manipulative behavior
Simpleminded as his critics found his ideas and remarks, cynical and manipulative as he may have been in actuality, he seemed to believe every word he said. —Arthur Miller
Arthur Miller
manipulatively
adverb
manipulativeness
noun
Examples of manipulative in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Empathetic Response: Does the model react in ways perceived as supportive, understanding, and validating without being manipulative?
—Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025
These are people who lack empathy, are narcissists with a grandiose view of themselves, are pathological liars, have a constant need for stimulation, are manipulative, fail to feel remorse or guilt, and refuse to take responsibility for anything.
—Jens Ludwig, Chicago Tribune, 13 Apr. 2025
An explosive musician, deft guitar player, innately recognizes the genius in other people and puts it into play without being manipulative.
—Gary Graff, Billboard, 10 Apr. 2025
Through Kristine’s perspective, Natalia’s previous cries for help were manipulative, derived to turn Michael against his wife.
—Barry Levitt, Time, 9 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for manipulative
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Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025
These are people who lack empathy, are narcissists with a grandiose view of themselves, are pathological liars, have a constant need for stimulation, are manipulative, fail to feel remorse or guilt, and refuse to take responsibility for anything.
—Jens Ludwig, Chicago Tribune, 13 Apr. 2025
An explosive musician, deft guitar player, innately recognizes the genius in other people and puts it into play without being manipulative.
—Gary Graff, Billboard, 10 Apr. 2025
Through Kristine’s perspective, Natalia’s previous cries for help were manipulative, derived to turn Michael against his wife.
—Barry Levitt, Time, 9 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for manipulative
Cite this Entry
“Manipulative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/manipulative. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.
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