Definition of brainwashing
1 : a forcible indoctrination to induce someone to give up basic political, social, or religious beliefs and attitudes and to accept contrasting regimented ideas
2 : persuasion by propaganda or salesmanship
brainwash
transitive verbbrainwash
nounbrainwasher
nounIndulge Your Inner Word Nerd
Origin and Etymology of brainwashing
translation of Chinese (Beijing) xǐnǎo
First Known Use: 1950
Medical Dictionary
brainwashing
playMedical Definition of brainwashing
: a forcible indoctrination to induce someone to give up basic political, social, or religious beliefs and attitudes and to accept contrasting regimented ideas
brainwash
transitive verbbrainwash
nounbrainwasher
nounLearn More about brainwashing
-
Nglish: Translation of brainwashing for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of brainwashing for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about brainwashing
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up brainwashing? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!