Svengali
English
Etymology
Named after the character [Svengali] in [Trilby] (1894) by [George du Maurier], a hypnotist who exerts manipulative control over others.
Pronunciation
/svɛnˈɡɑːli/ /svɛŋˈɡɑːli/ Katakana: スベンガリー
Noun
Svengali (plural Svengalis)
One who manipulates or controls another as by some mesmeric or sinister influence.
- The young performer’s career was shaped by a Svengali who dictated every move behind the scenes.
(by extension) A coach, mentor, or industry mogul who exerts strong, often controlling influence over another’s success or public image.
- He became a Svengali figure in the startup world, guiding founders while quietly steering their decisions.
Usage notes
Typically carries a negative connotation, implying manipulation, domination, or undue influence. Occasionally used more neutrally to describe a powerful or highly involved mentor.
See also
manipulator puppet master éminence grise power broker kingmaker string-puller gaslighter
Further reading
[Svengali — Wikipedia] [Trilby (novel) — Wikipedia]