Translate text 
Translate files Brainwashing
/ˈbreɪnˌwɒʃɪŋ/
Meaning & Definition
noun
The process of deliberately influencing someone's beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors through manipulative techniques, often involving pressure, coercion, or propaganda.
Many cults employ brainwashing techniques to control the thoughts and actions of their members.
The act or process of conditioning someone to accept a set of beliefs or behaviors as true or acceptable, often disregarding critical thinking.
The documentary explored the brainwashing methods used in totalitarian regimes.
A systematic effort to persuade someone to change their ideas or beliefs, often through unethical means.
Critics argue that the political campaign engaged in brainwashing to sway voters.
Etymology
Coined in the 1950s, combining 'brain' and 'washing,' referring to cleaning the mind of previous beliefs.
Common Phrases and Expressions
thought control:
The act of influencing or controlling someone's thinking.
mind manipulation:
The act of controlling or influencing someone's thoughts through psychological techniques.
Related Words
Slang Meanings
Brain fry
After the relentless commercials, I felt like my brain was fried from all the brainwashing.
Mental reprogramming
He said it was just mental reprogramming, but I felt it was more like brainwashing.