noun

Rasputin

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Rasputin (noun) means By extension from the historical figure, any manipulative advisor or insider who gains excessive, often sinister influence over a powerful person. Example: “Critics called the aide a modern-day rasputin, whispering in the minister's ear on every decision.”

noun

By extension from the historical figure, any manipulative advisor or insider who gains excessive, often sinister influence over a powerful person.

"Critics called the aide a modern-day rasputin, whispering in the minister's ear on every decision."

How to use Rasputin

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUsed, lowercase, as a general label for a scheming behind-the-scenes advisor — not just the historical person.

When to use it

Almost always used disparagingly, implying the advisor's influence is unhealthy or self-serving.

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: Rasputins

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Critics called the aide a modern-day _____, whispering in the minister's ear on every decision.

Etymology

From Grigori Rasputin (1869-1916), the Russian mystic who gained significant influence over the last Tsarist court; his name became a byword for a shadowy, unelected advisor.

Origin: Russian · First attested 1869

Class of 1869 Rasputin joined the language around 1869.

Lorna lulu piranha

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Rhymes for Rasputin

Putin

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Rasputin” mean?

The word “Rasputin” means by extension from the historical figure, any manipulative advisor or insider who gains excessive, often sinister influence over a powerful person. In plain terms, used, lowercase, as a general label for a scheming behind-the-scenes advisor — not just the historical person.

How do you use “Rasputin” in a sentence?

Here is “Rasputin” used in a sentence: “Critics called the aide a modern-day rasputin, whispering in the minister's ear on every decision.”

What part of speech is “Rasputin”?

“Rasputin” is a noun.

Where does the word “Rasputin” come from?

The word “Rasputin” dates back to around 1869 and comes from Russian. From Grigori Rasputin (1869-1916), the Russian mystic who gained significant influence over the last Tsarist court; his name became a byword for a shadowy, unelected advisor.

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Words with slavic origins