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

indoctrination

The process of teaching a person or group to accept a set of beliefs uncritically.

manipulation

Controlling someone or something to your advantage, often in a deceptive way.

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.