LIKE PUTTY Meaning and
Definition
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"Like putty" refers to a phrase used to describe something or someone that is easily moldable, flexible, or impressionable. The expression draws an analogy to putty, a soft and pliable material that can be easily shaped or molded into different forms.
In a literal sense, putty is a substance typically made from a combination of clay, limestone, and linseed oil, used for sealing gaps or repairing cracks in various surfaces. Metaphorically, when something or someone is described as "like putty," it implies that they possess similar characteristics to this moldable material.
When applied figuratively, the term suggests that the subject is highly adaptable and can be influenced or manipulated readily. It implies that the person's opinions, thoughts, or actions can be easily changed or shaped by outside forces, be it the influence of others, circumstances, or new information. Furthermore, it suggests a certain lack of firmness or stability in character or decision-making.
The phrase "like putty" can be used in various contexts, such as describing someone who lacks a strong sense of personal identity, someone who is easily swayed, or even a situation that can be easily manipulated or altered. It highlights the subject's susceptibility to external influences and their overall malleability, allowing for significant changes or adjustments to be made with little effort.
Common Misspellings for LIKE PUTTY
- kike putty
- pike putty
- oike putty
- luke putty
- ljke putty
- lkke putty
- loke putty
- l9ke putty
- l8ke putty
- lije putty
- lime putty
- lile putty
- lioe putty
- liie putty
- likw putty
- liks putty
- likd putty
- likr putty
- lik4 putty
- lik3 putty
Etymology of LIKE PUTTY
The etymology of the phrase "like putty" can be understood by examining the origin of each component word individually.
1. Like: The word "like" originates from the Old English word "gelīc", which means "similar" or "alike". Over time, this word evolved to its current form and continued to be used with a similar meaning, indicating similarity or resemblance between two things.
2. Putty: "Putty" comes from the Middle English word "putti" or "putte", which was derived from the Old French word "potée". This word referred to a type of thick, moldable paste-like material used originally for caulking windows or filling in cracks.
Idioms with the word LIKE PUTTY
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be like putty in someone's hands
The idiom "be like putty in someone's hands" means to be easily influenced or manipulated by someone else. It implies that the person being described is as malleable and pliable as putty, allowing others to shape and control their actions or decisions.
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