# puppeteer

/pəpəˈtiɹ/ (US) · /pˌʌpɪtˈiə/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/puppeteer
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

a person who controls puppets in a show, often hiding behind a curtain or screen. You also use it for someone who secretly controls what other people do.

For teachers: a performer who manipulates puppets in theatrical or televised performance. Extended to a person who covertly controls the actions or decisions of others.

## Examples

- The puppeteer makes the doll dance and talk.
- The puppeteer hides behind the curtain while the children laugh at the talking fox.
- Behind the success of the candidate stood a wealthy puppeteer who funded the campaign and chose every slogan.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.