demonization

American  

[dee-muh-nahy-zey-shuhn] / ˌdi mə naɪˈzeɪ ʃən /

especially British, demonisation

noun

1. the act or fact of regarding, treating, or speaking of a person or thing as entirely bad.

   These bitter people carry on a systematic, unremitting demonization of the government, blaming it for whatever ails the economy.

2. the act or fact of subjecting a person or thing to the influence of evil spirits; possession or oppression by a demon.

   The effects of curses and occult rituals often involve demonization, and need to be revealed by the Holy Spirit.

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Etymology

Origin of demonization

demoniz(e) ( def. ) + -ation ( def. )

Example Sentences

But their return still set off panicked media coverage and conspiracy theories as well as the demonization of those involved in the rescue.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

The demonization efforts have wound up being one giant publicity campaign for a medication that, for so many years, most women didn’t even know was an option.

From Slate • Jun. 18, 2024

That was part of the demonization — you become emotionally invested in what you're defending.

From Salon • Feb. 27, 2024

"What troubles me is the demonization of addiction, of human frailty, using me as its avatar and the devastating consequences it has for the millions struggling with addiction."

From Reuters • Nov. 2, 2023

Unreflected celebration of technocracy as the sole agent of change must be treated with the same suspicion as its demonization.

From The Civilization of Illiteracy by Nadin, Mihai