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.
Example sentences
- The cult leaders used intense and prolonged brainwashing techniques to control their followers.
- The totalitarian regime used propaganda and brainwashing to control the minds of its citizens.
- The kidnappers tried to brainwash their hostage into believing in their cause.
- The parents were worried that their son had been brainwashed by his friends into joining a dangerous gang.
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 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
