View synonyms for

brainwashing

Or ��-�ɲ��·��Բ�,

[breyn-wosh-ing, -waw-shing]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a method for systematically changing attitudes or altering beliefs, originated in totalitarian countries, especially through the use of torture, drugs, or psychological-stress techniques.
any method of controlled systematic indoctrination, especially one based on repetition or confusion.
brainwashing by TV commercials.
an instance of subjecting or being subjected to such techniques.
efforts to halt the brainwashing of captive audiences.

brainwashing

Indoctrination that forces people to abandon their beliefs in favor of another set of beliefs. Usually associated with military and political interrogation and religious conversion, brainwashing attempts, through prolonged stress, to break down an individual's physical and mental defenses. Brainwashing techniques range from vocal persuasion and threats to punishment, physical deprivation, mind-altering drugs, and severe physical torture.

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of brainwashing¹

First recorded in 1945–50; brain + washing

Discover More

Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Rather than brainwashing us, the objective of the totalitarian is to bludgeon us into apathy, resignation and passivity.

From

While acknowledging that there are still some loose threads to this theory, O’Neill suggests that Manson possibly had connections to secret government programs researching mind control and brainwashing, such as the CIA’s project MKUltra.

From

In October 2018, Mrs Higgs shared two posts to Facebook to about 100 friends under her maiden name, one of which referred to "brainwashing our children".

From

Intense, ideological "brainwashing" sessions, held every morning, will further ensure they are mentally ready, Lee adds.

From

“The public broadcaster covers the whole of Georgia and they are brainwashing our population with propaganda, people who may not be sure what is going on,” he said.

From

brainwash brainwave

Browse