brainwashing
|brain/wash/ing|
🇺🇸
/ˈbreɪnˌwɑːʃɪŋ/
🇬🇧
/ˈbreɪnˌwɒʃɪŋ/
(brainwash)
coercive persuasion
Etymology
'brainwashing' originates from the Chinese term '洗脑' (xǐnǎo), where '洗' meant 'wash' and '脑' meant 'brain.'
'洗脑' was translated into English as 'brainwashing' during the Korean War, reflecting the process of indoctrination used on prisoners.
Initially, it meant 'to cleanse the brain,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'indoctrination or coercive persuasion.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the process of pressuring someone into adopting radically different beliefs by using systematic and often forcible means.
The cult was accused of brainwashing its members.
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Verb 1
to make someone adopt radically different beliefs by using systematic and often forcible means.
They tried to brainwash him into joining the group.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45