English

Noun

svengali ‎(plural svengalis)

1. One who manipulates or controls another as by some mesmeric or sinister influence; especially a coach, mentor or industry mogul.
   • 2005 October 15, in the Hamilton Spectator:

     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.

   • 2016 February 2016, in Hugh Hewitt's "Six reasons Trump is still better than Clinton" in the Washington Examiner:

     Donald's daughter and Svengali Ivanka is a smart, smart, smart lady with an extraordinary intellect and influence on her father.

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