Svengali
WordNet
noun
(1) The musician in a novel by George du Maurier who controls Trilby's singing hypnotically
(2) Someone (usually maleficent) who tries to persuade or force another person to do his bidding
WiktionaryText
Etymology
Named from a character in George du Maurier's novel Trilby.
Noun
- One who manipulates or controls another as by some mesmeric or sinister influence; especially with reference to coaches, mentors or industry moguls.
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- 2005: She also offers a fascinating glimpse into a more innocent age before svengalis began colluding with marketing men and TV execs to promote talentless wannabes to overnight success. —Hamilton Spectator, October 15, 2005
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