manipulate
verb
[ məˈnɪpjʊleɪt ]
• handle or control (a tool, mechanism, information, etc.) in a skilful manner.
• "he manipulated the dials of the set"
• control or influence (a person or situation) cleverly or unscrupulously.
• "the masses were deceived and manipulated by a tiny group"
Similar:
exploit,
control,
influence,
use/turn to one's advantage,
manoeuvre,
engineer,
steer,
direct,
guide,
work,
orchestrate,
choreograph,
Origin:
early 19th century: back-formation from manipulation.
