English Reference
noun

manipulation

n.
US /məˌnɪpjəˈɫeɪʃən/ UK /mənˌɪpjʊlˈeɪʃən/ ma·nip·u·la·tion UK spelling manipulations

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Technical

    moving or using something skillfully with your hands.

    the skillful handling or operation of an object or part of the body, often for medical or technical purposes.

    Simple

    The surgeon's careful manipulation of the tools allowed for a very precise operation.

    In context

    The physical therapist performed a gentle manipulation of the patient's spine to relieve the pressure on the nerves.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Academic Computing

    changing information or data to get a specific result, sometimes dishonestly.

    the act of altering or processing data, variables, or accounts to achieve a specific result or to present a biased view.

    Simple

    The software allows for easy manipulation of digital photos to change the colours.

    In context

    The investigation revealed widespread manipulation of the company's financial records to hide the growing debt from investors.

    alterationadjustmentfalsification

Usage require manipulation

Watchdog science journalism has become a fundamental tool to counter scientific malpractice, such as publication fraud, abuse and political and corporate manipulation of science.

Phys.org· 13 Aug 2026

While this study looked closely at microscopic worms, this behavioral manipulation mirrors phenomena seen across the natural world.

Phys.org· 14 Aug 2026

From French manipulation, from Old French manipule, from Latin manipulus. Morphologically manipulate + -ion.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin manipulus
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated