Meaning : Influence or control shrewdly or deviously.
Example :
He manipulated public opinion in his favor.
Synonyms : pull strings, pull wires
Meaning : Hold something in one's hands and move it.
Meaning : Maintain influence over (others or oneself) skillfully, usually to one's advantage.
Example :
She manipulates her boss.
She is a very controlling mother and doesn't let her children grow up.
The teacher knew how to keep the class in line.
She keeps in line.
Synonyms : control, keep in line
Meaning : Treat manually, as with massage, for therapeutic purposed.