brainwash

or brain-wash, brain wash

[ breyn-wosh, -wawsh ]

verb (used with object)

1. to cause (someone) to undergo brainwashing.

noun

1. the process of brainwashing.
2. a subjection to brainwashing.

brainwash

/ ˈbreɪnˌwɒʃ /

verb

1. tr to effect a radical change in the ideas and beliefs of (a person), esp by methods based on isolation, sleeplessness, hunger, extreme discomfort, pain, and the alternation of kindness and cruelty

Derived Forms

• ˈbrainˌwasher, noun
• ˈbrainˌwashing, noun

Other Words From

• brainwasher noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of brainwash¹

First recorded in 1950–55; back formation from brainwashing

Example Sentences

“Founded in 1999 on the heels of the Satanic ‘panic’ and growing steadily ever since, Infowars has distinguished itself as an invaluable tool for brainwashing and controlling the masses,” he wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

My former Salon colleague Matthew Sheffield pointed out on election night that “The average American is surrounded by partisan brainwashing media. There are now 7 right-wing infotainment channels and 1 MSNBC.”

From Salon

"It’s absolutely textbook. In fact, they have to do that for this machine that is cultic brainwashing to work," she says.

From BBC

“Is this just groupthink, brainwashing or what, on either side?” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

That feels easy because they haven’t been brainwashed, as much as their school is trying to brainwash them.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• educate
• indoctrinate