marionette

noun

mar·​i·​o·​nette ˌmer-ē-ə-ˈnet How to pronounce marionette (audio)
Synonyms of marionette
: a small-scale usually wooden figure (as of a person) with jointed limbs that is moved from above by manipulation of the attached strings or wires

Examples of marionette in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The collections explore themes such as immigration and feminism while showcasing the many forms puppetry can take, from marionettes and hand puppets to shadow theater. — Tran Chau, Hartford Courant, 24 Aug. 2026 This is a variety show with marionettes that sing, dance, dazzle and delight people of all ages. — Hema Sivanandam, Mercury News, 24 Aug. 2026 Platform algorithms have evolved to jerk our emotions around like marionettes. — Literary Hub, 10 Aug. 2026 The video features key symbols of Chicano culture, from lowriders to marionette dolls and sparkly Lady of Guadalupe statues. — Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for marionette

Word History

Etymology

French marionnette, from Middle French maryonete, from Marion, diminutive of Marie Mary

First Known Use

circa 1620, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of marionette was circa 1620

Browse Nearby Words

marionberry
marionette
Mariotte
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Marionette.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/marionette. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

marionette

noun
mar·​i·​o·​nette ˌmar-ē-ə-ˈnet How to pronounce marionette (audio)
ˌmer-
: a puppet moved by attached strings or wires

More from Merriam-Webster on marionette

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for marionette

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about marionette

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