puppet character

[ˈpʌpɪt ˈkærɪktər]
nounpl: puppet characters
personagem de fantoche
1. a character or figure represented by a puppet that is manipulated by strings, rods, or hands to perform in theatrical or entertainment productions
The puppet character danced across the stage with exaggerated movements.
A personagem de fantoche dançou pelo palco com movimentos exagerados.
2. a fictional character that is portrayed using puppet animation in films, television shows, or performances
Children's shows often feature beloved puppet characters that teach important lessons.
Programas infantis frequentemente apresentam personagens de fantoche queridas que ensinam lições importantes.
3. a person who is controlled or manipulated by someone else, lacking autonomy or independent decision-making
He felt like a puppet character in someone else's story.
Ele se sentia como uma personagem de fantoche na história de outra pessoa.
In Brazil, puppet characters are deeply rooted in traditional folk culture, particularly in the Northeast with 'Teatro de Bonecos' and 'Mamulengo'. In the USA and internationally, puppet characters gained massive popularity through television shows like 'The Muppets' and 'Sesame Street', becoming iconic educational and entertainment figures. The term is also metaphorically used in both cultures to describe people manipulated by others.
NYC Slang
puppet (as in 'he's just a puppet for the boss')
Synonyms / Sinônimos
marionettepuppet figureanimated characterpuppet persona
Antonyms / Antônimos
autonomous characterindependent figure

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
personagem de fantoche
Most common usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
boneco de fantoche
Common colloquial variation
São Paulo
personagem de fantoche / boneco animado
Both terms used interchangeably
Portugal
personagem de marioneta
Portuguese preference for 'marioneta' over 'fantoche'

Related Words

puppet showpuppeteeringmarionettestring puppethand puppetanimatronic character

Related Idioms & Phrases

pull someone's strings like a puppet character
dance to someone's tune like a puppet character
cut the strings of a puppet character (to free someone from control)
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