The meaning of MANIPULATIVE is of, relating to, or performed by manipulation; especially : serving or intended to control or influence others in a deceptive and often unfair or selfish way.

MANIPULATIVE definition: influencing or attempting to influence the behavior or emotions of others for one’s own purposes. See examples of manipulative used in a sentence.

Even as a child she was manipulative and knew how to get her own way. He was a manipulative liar who preyed on his trusting wife.

Jan 14, 2026 · Manipulative behaviors can be hard to spot and may leave you feeling confused and anxious. Some common signs of manipulation are lying, gaslighting, and passive-aggressive …

Dec 2, 2025 · Manipulative behavior includes actions a person uses to gain influence or control over someone else. It's different from persuasion, which respects the agency of another person to define …

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

Define manipulative. manipulative synonyms, manipulative pronunciation, manipulative translation, English dictionary definition of manipulative. adj. Serving, tending, or having the power to manipulate.