be like putty in someone's hands

be like putty in (one's) hands

To be easy to control or bend to one's wishes. (Putty is a very malleable material.) She was so persuasive and flattering that I was like putty in her hands, ready to do whatever she asked. A few expensive gifts and Julia will be like putty in our hands. Then she will no doubt go along with our scheme. The new kid is already like putty in our hands, so we can totally get him to steal the test answers for us.

See also: hand, like, putty

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

be like putty (or wax) in someone's hands

be easily manipulated or dominated by someone.

1975 Sam Selvon Moses Ascending Bob was there, and I gave him a little bit of crumpet, and afterwards he was like putty in my hands.

See also: hand, like, putty

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017