groupthink

noun

group·​think ˈgrüp-ˌthiŋk How to pronounce groupthink (audio)
: a pattern of thought characterized by self-deception, forced manufacture of consent, and conformity to group values and ethics

Examples of groupthink in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Given the city’s prominence as the hub of national media, the Tonys are not simply a local event but one of the means by which CBS appropriates entertainment awards shows (primarily music-industry ceremonies) as a way of baiting viewers and imposing left-liberal groupthink on the public. Armond White, National Review, 6 June 2025 Fueled by the radical groupthink Far Left faculty, inept University leadership, donations by foreign adversaries, and proHamas terrorists, Harvard has fully embraced and tolerated the raging antisemitism threatening the lives and physical safety of Jewish students on campus. Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Apr. 2025 But that mindset often breeds groupthink and mediocrity. Ann Kowal Smith, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 That Houston is likely to still start two freshmen makes the Cougars far from the surefire preseason title favorite, but don’t be surprised if the groupthink goes that direction. The Athletic College Basketball, New York Times, 29 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for groupthink

Word History

Etymology

group entry 1 + -think (as in doublethink)

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of groupthink was in 1952

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Cite this Entry

“Groupthink.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/groupthink. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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