*manipulat*

v. i. To use the hands in dexterous operations; to do hand work; specifically, to manage the apparatus or instruments used in scientific work, or in artistic or mechanical processes; also, specifically, to use the hand in mesmeric operations. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ Cf. F. manipulation. ] 1. The act or process of manipulating, or the state of being manipulated; the act of handling work by hand; use of the hands, in an artistic or skillful manner, in science or art. [ 1913 Webster ]

Manipulation is to the chemist like the external senses to the mind. Whewell. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. The use of the hands in mesmeric operations. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Artful management; as, the manipulation of political bodies; sometimes, a management or treatment for purposes of deception or fraud. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. 1. Of or pertaining to manipulation; performed by manipulation. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Prone to attempt to influence others by devious or subtle psychological means, in order to induce them to do what one wants. [ PJC ]

n. (Education) Any object given to children to encourage them to learn by manipulating physical objects; applied especially to solid objects of varying geometrical shape that can be fit together to form larger aggregates. [ PJC ]

n. One who manipulates, sometimes in an underhanded or fraudulent manner; as, a stock market manipulator. [ 1913 Webster +PJC ]