Definition
Brainwash means to forcibly and systematically cause someone to adopt certain beliefs, ideas, or values through repetitive and intense conditioning.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Brainwash is a verb.
Synonyms
Indoctrinate, manipulate, program, reeducate, condition, influence, persuade.
Antonyms
Free, liberate, emancipate, release, unshackle.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | None |
| Verb | brainwash, brainwashing, brainwashes, brainwashed |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The cult leader used intense psychological manipulation techniques to brainwash his followers into unquestioningly obeying his every command.
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The totalitarian regime employed propaganda and censorship to brainwash the population and control their thoughts and beliefs.
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The extremist group used indoctrination methods to brainwash vulnerable individuals, turning them into radicalized terrorists.
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The marketing campaign was so effective that it seemed to brainwash consumers into believing they couldn’t live without the product.
Usage
Brainwash is a word that describes a process of psychological manipulation that aims to change a person’s beliefs, ideas, or values through systematic and intense conditioning. The term is often used in contexts where there is an abuse of power or a violation of human rights, such as in cases of cults, totalitarian regimes, or kidnappings. Brainwashing techniques can include isolation, sleep deprivation, physical and psychological torture, or the use of drugs. The aim is to control and influence the minds of others, often by exploiting their vulnerabilities or employing persuasive tactics that override critical thinking and independent judgment.
The term “brainwash” has its roots in the Chinese phrase “xǐ năo,” which means “wash brain.” The term was first introduced in the United States during the Korean War in the 1950s, where it was used to describe the techniques used by the Chinese Communists to indoctrinate American prisoners of war.
Brainwash can also be used with different prefixes and suffixes to modify its meaning. For example, the prefix “de-” can be added to create the word “debrainwash,” which means to undo the effects of brainwashing or to free someone from its influence. The suffix “-ing” can be added to create “brainwashing,” which refers to the act or process of brainwashing.
In conclusion, brainwash is a verb that describes a process of forcibly and systematically causing someone to adopt certain beliefs, ideas, or values through repetitive and intense conditioning. The term has its roots in the Chinese phrase “xǐ năo” and is often associated with abusive or manipulative practices. While the use of the term can be controversial, it remains a useful way of describing a form of psychological manipulation that can have serious consequences for the individuals involved.