Definition of the word sock puppet

The term "sock puppet" was coined in the mid-20th century to describe a type of puppet used in television and children's programming. The puppet consists of a handheld, Muppet-like figure made out of a fabric sock or glove with felt or foam features. The puppeteer manipulates the puppet's movements from behind a curtain or out of sight, making it appear as though the puppet is speaking or acting autonomously. The term "sock puppet" is derived from the fact that the puppet's body is literally a sock, or fabric glove, that is pulled over the hand of the puppeteer to control the puppet's movements. The use of sock puppets has remained popular in entertainment, particularly in family-friendly productions where they are often used to educate and entertain young audiences.