1. past tense of puppeteer; to manipulate or control (a puppet) by means of strings or rods
Usage: literal use in theater and performance
2. to control or manipulate (a person or group) like a puppet; to pull the strings of someone
Usage: figurative use; often implies hidden or indirect control

Examples

• The skilled performer puppeteered the wooden marionette across the stage with graceful movements.
• Behind the scenes, the CEO puppeteered the company's decisions through his trusted advisors.
• She felt puppeteered by her parents' constant interference in her life choices.
• The director puppeteered every aspect of the production, from casting to final edits.
• He puppeteered the negotiations to ensure his preferred outcome.
• The strings that puppeteered the character were barely visible to the audience.