The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

svengali

IPA

Dictionary definition of svengali

A person who manipulates or controls another person for their own purposes, often in a way that is unethical or immoral.
"The young leader was a vindictive svengali who manipulated his staff for personal gain."

Detailed meaning of svengali

The term comes from a fictional character in George du Maurier's novel "Trilby," who uses hypnosis to control the actions of the main character. In contemporary usage, the term 'Svengali' is often used to describe a person who exercises a powerful and manipulative influence over another person, often in a way that is seen as sinister or exploitative. The use of the term suggests a sense of psychological or emotional domination, and may be used to criticize or condemn a person who is believed to be controlling or manipulating others for their own gain.

Example sentences containing svengali

1. Joe was perceived as a Svengali, manipulating everyone around him.
2. In the literary world, Svengali is a symbol of sinister control.
3. It was clear that the ambitious manager was nothing more than a Svengali.
4. Sandra was weary of the Svengali's influence on her career choices.
5. Some see him as a mentor, others see a Svengali.
6. The actor broke free from the Svengali who had been managing his career.

History and etymology of svengali

The noun 'Svengali' is a fascinating term with a unique etymology. It originates from a fictional character named Svengali in George du Maurier's 1894 novel 'Trilby.' Svengali is depicted as a sinister and manipulative character who uses hypnosis to control and exploit the young and talented singer Trilby O'Ferrall. The name 'Svengali' itself is believed to be derived from the name of a real-life 19th-century Polish musician and composer named Franz von Vecsey, whose name was sometimes spelled 'Svengali' in English. Over time, 'Svengali' has become synonymous with a person who manipulates or controls another individual for their own purposes, often in an unethical or immoral manner. The etymology of 'Svengali' highlights the enduring influence of literature and the way fictional characters can leave a lasting impact on language and culture.

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Further usage examples of svengali

1. The Svengali had his own interests in mind, not the interests of the band.
2. The producer's Svengali-like influence was evident in every decision.
3. Behind the successful startup was a Svengali pulling the strings.
4. His Svengali tactics were revealed when the company's finances were audited.
5. Despite his Svengali reputation, his clients trusted him implicitly.
6. She was desperate to escape the Svengali's toxic grip.
7. The Svengali had a mesmerizing effect on his young protégé.
8. In the end, the Svengali's true motives were exposed.
9. His charismatic personality masked his Svengali nature.
10. The politician was nothing more than a Svengali, preying on people's fears.
11. The detective slowly began to see the Svengali's manipulative patterns.
12. The Svengali effect: manipulation under the guise of mentorship.
13. The news article painted him as a Svengali, controlling the singer's every move.
14. They called her a Svengali, but she considered herself a guide.