Meaning & Definition of word "Demonize"
to
Demonize
/ˈdiːmənaɪz/
verb:
- 1. to portray someone or something as wicked or threatening.
- Example: The media often tends to demonize politicians during election season.
- 2. to make a demon or evil spirit of.
- Example: Historically, certain cultures would demonize rivals by attributing supernatural qualities to them.
- 3. to vilify or cast in a negative light.
- Example: Critics warned that to demonize those who oppose the policy undermines constructive dialogue.
- 4. to attribute evil or malicious intent to.
- Example: It is easy to demonize someone when we only hear one side of the story.
- 5. to turn someone into a figure of hatred or revulsion.
- Example: His actions had been misrepresented to demonize him in the public eye.
Etymology
Derived from the word 'demon' combined with the suffix '-ize'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
demonize the opposition:
To portray opposing views or their proponents as evil or malevolent.
demonized figure:
A person who has been portrayed negatively, often in the media.
Related Words
demon:
A supernatural being often associated with evil.
demonology:
The study of demons or beliefs about demons.
Slang Meanings of demonize
Meaning: To make someone out to be the bad guy.
Example Sentence: After the scandal, they tried to demonize him to distract from their own issues.
Meaning: To exaggerate a person's negative traits.
Example Sentence: They really demonize her just because she disagrees with them.