pull string

Doll's voice trigger

A pull string is a cord that activates a mechanism when tugged—the string on a talking doll, the chain on a ceiling fan, or the cord that starts a lawnmower engine.

Figuratively, to pull strings is to use influence or connections to make things happen behind the scenes: She pulled some strings to get him the interview.

Related
  • tugShort forceful pull
  • tug of warTeams pull rope opposite ways
  • yankQuick, forceful pull
  • cordFlexible twisted strand
  • puppetControlled performing figure

puppet master · marionette · control · manipulate · influence · behind the scenes · favor · connection · backstage · power · thread · loose thread · tension · jerk · drawstring · bow · archer · release

Categories
Opposites
activation mechanism type

pull stringpush button

Depressible control element

button · switch · toggle · dial · knob

interaction gesture

pull stringpush button

Depressible control element

press button · tap · press · squeeze · turn

control style

pull stringmotion sensor

Device detecting nearby activity

voice command · touchscreen interface · timer · proximity sensor

Family

pull, string, pulls, pulled, pulling, puller, strings, stringed, stringing

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G