deprogram

[ dee-proh-gram ]

verb (used with object)

, de·pro·grammed or de·pro·gramed, de·pro·gram·ming or de·pro·gram·ing.

1. to free (a convert) from the influence of a religious cult, political indoctrination, etc., by intensive persuasion or reeducation.
2. to retrain, as for the purpose of eliminating or replacing a learned or acquired behavior pattern or habit that is undesirable or unsuitable.

Other Words From

• de·program·mer de·program·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of deprogram¹

An Americanism dating back to 1970–75; de- + program

Example Sentences

It has been a 20-year process to deprogram that worldview.

From Salon

Steven Hassan is one of the world's leading experts on cults and other dangerous organizations, as well as how to deprogram people who have succumbed to "mind control."

From Salon

Steven Hassan is one of the world's leading experts on cults and other dangerous organizations, as well as how to deprogram people who have succumbed to "mind control."

From Salon

Clinton’s hope to deprogram Trump followers, unfortunately, faces an uphill road.

From Salon

Ramer is political director for the Republican Accountability Project, a group working to deprogram members of the Cult of Trump.

From Los Angeles Times