The meaning of MANIPULATE is to move or control with the hands or by mechanical means especially in a skillful manner. How to use manipulate in a sentence.

MANIPULATE definition: 1. to control something or someone to your advantage, often unfairly or dishonestly: 2. to control…. Learn more.

MANIPULATE definition: to manage or influence skillfully, especially in an unfair manner. See examples of manipulate used in a sentence.

If you say that someone manipulates an event or situation, you disapprove of them because they use or control it for their own benefit, or cause it to develop in the way they want. She was unable, for once, …

Definition of manipulate verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

1. to manage or influence skillfully and often unfairly: to manipulate people's feelings. 2. to handle or use, esp. with skill: to manipulate a large tractor. 3. to adapt or change (accounts, figures, etc.) to suit …

to manage or influence skillfully, esp. in an unfair manner: to manipulate people's feelings. to handle, manage, or use, esp. with skill, in some process of treatment or performance: to manipulate a large …

Nov 6, 2025 · manipulate (third-person singular simple present manipulates, present participle manipulating, simple past and past participle manipulated) (transitive) To move, arrange or operate …

There are nine meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb manipulate, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Over time, the word 'manipulate' evolved to encompass the notion of skillfully controlling or influencing people or objects to achieve a desired outcome or gain an advantage.