marionette

noun

mar·​i·​o·​nette ˌmer-ē-ə-ˈnet How to pronounce marionette (audio)
Synonyms of marionettenext
: 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.
There are marionettes, masks, shadow puppets and table top puppets. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 24 Feb. 2026 Clicking and clacking, a tiny wooden marionette lifts an apple to his mouth ad infinitum. — Jessica Kozuka, Travel + Leisure, 10 June 2026 Avoid a tourist trap by choosing one displaying the official sticker of a Guignol marionette. — John Brunton, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Feb. 2026 Use daily for improvement in the look of smile lines, forehead wrinkles, marionette lines, skin hydration, skin elasticity, volume and plumpness. — Tory Johnson, ABC News, 19 Mar. 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 7 Jul. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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