brainwash
|brain-wash|
🇺🇸
/ˈbreɪnˌwɔʃ/
🇬🇧
/ˈbreɪnˌwɒʃ/
coercive persuasion
Etymology
'brainwash' originates from the Chinese term '洗脑' (xǐnǎo), where '洗' meant 'wash' and '脑' meant 'brain'.
'洗脑' was translated into English as 'brainwash' during the Korean War, reflecting the process of indoctrination.
Initially, it meant 'to cleanse the mind', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to forcefully change beliefs'.
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 documentary explored the brainwash techniques used by the regime.
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Verb 1
to make someone adopt radically different beliefs by using systematic and often forcible pressure.
The cult tried to brainwash its members into following their leader blindly.
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Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42