What does marionette mean?
A marionette is a jointed puppet whose movements are controlled by strings or wires from above. Performers manipulate these figures to create the illusion that they are thinking, speaking, and acting independently. Historically, marionettes have been a prominent form of puppet theatre in many countries and are often constructed with carefully carved limbs, painted faces, and fine clothing. The word also has a figurative and generally critical use: to call someone a political marionette is to suggest that powerful interests control their actions and that they possess little real autonomy. In ordinary conversation, “puppet” may be used more broadly, but “marionette” is the more precise term when the figure is suspended and operated by strings or wires. Together, the literal and figurative senses express the striking contrast between apparent independence and complete external control.
A jointed puppet operated by strings or wires attached from above; figuratively, a person whose actions are controlled by another.
"The puppeteer brought several marionettes onto the stage."
The figurative use is usually disparaging and implies a lack of independent judgment or action.
To control or manipulate someone as though they were a puppet.
"The lobbyist marionetted the witness throughout the hearing."
This verbal use is uncommon and generally carries a critical connotation.
The standard plural is marionettes, referring either to individual puppet figures or to performers who manipulate them.
"The theatre company preserved its collection of antique marionettes."
A marionette may appear to have a personality of its own, but every gesture begins with a pull.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does marionette come from?
The word entered English in the early 18th century from French marionette, a diminutive formed from the name Marion. Marion itself is associated with the Provençal play Marion Delorme and with the older French term marion, meaning a puppet or doll. The compound was initially written marrionette, reflecting the spelling of the French source. The modern English spelling and pronunciation became established during the 18th century.
Related word forms
How marionette is actually used
The literal sense refers specifically to a puppet controlled from above by strings or wires. The figurative sense is usually critical or disparaging, suggesting that someone lacks genuine independence. It is also associated with the European tradition of puppet theatre.
Easily confused with marionette
A marionette is specifically a jointed figure operated from above by strings or wires, while a puppet is a broader term for any figure or person whose movements are externally controlled.