# brainwashing

/ˈbɹeɪnˌwɑʃɪŋ/ (US) · /bɹˈeɪnwɒʃɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/brainwashing
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the process of changing someone's beliefs or opinions by using strong pressure or lies. It is often used to describe how people are forced to think a certain way by a group or government.

For teachers: the systematic process of altering a person's beliefs or attitudes through intensive psychological pressure or coercive techniques. Often associated with political indoctrination or cults.

## Examples

- The government was accused of brainwashing the citizens.
- The documentary explores how brainwashing was used to manipulate soldiers during the war.
- Psychologists argue that true brainwashing requires a combination of isolation from external information and the systematic dismantling of the individual's previous cognitive framework.

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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.