Definition of manipulative

The word "manipulative" has its roots in the Latin words "manus," meaning hand, and "ipra," meaning to seize or take. In the 15th century, the term "manipulative" referred to the act of handling or controlling something with the hands, particularly in a skilled or artistic way. Over time, the word took on a more nuanced meaning, describing someone who skillfully and often cunningly influences or controls others, often to achieve their own ends. In the late 18th century, the term gained popularity in the context of psychology, referring to people who used manipulation to influence others' behavior or emotions. Today, "manipulative" is often used to describe individuals who engage in tactics such as emotional blackmail, gaslighting, or other forms of psychological manipulation to get what they want from others.