# brainwash

/ˈbɹeɪnˌwɑʃ/ (US) · /bɹˈeɪnwɒʃ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/brainwash
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

to make someone believe something completely by controlling information and repeating messages over time. You use it when pressure or propaganda changes how a person thinks.

For teachers: to indoctrinate a person through sustained manipulation, isolation, or repetitive propaganda so that prior beliefs are replaced with uncritical acceptance.

## Examples

- They try to brainwash young followers with endless videos.
- The cult leaders brainwash new members by isolating them and repeating the same slogans every day.
- Decades of state-controlled media had brainwashed an entire generation into equating obedience with loyalty and dissent with betrayal.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object, often followed by 'into' + noun or gerund.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.