Brainwash Meaning
/ˈbɹeɪnwɒʃ/Definition, CEFR level C2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounA distorting effect upon one's memory, belief, or ideas, as by propaganda.
verbTo affect one's mind by using extreme mental pressure or any other mind-affecting process. (e.g. hypnosis)
Sentence Examples
Who paid you to add this sentence? You're trying to brainwash us!
Sami tried to brainwash Layla into being a completely different person.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The cult leader tried to ____ his followers into believing his false teachings.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
They tried to ____ the group into believing things that were not true.
Word Origin & History
From brain + wash, a calque of Chinese 洗腦 /洗脑 (xǐnǎo), literally to wash the brain. Usage via U.S. military during the Korean War.
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CEFR Practice Quiz
The cult leader tried to ____ his followers into believing his false teachings.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
They tried to ____ the group into believing things that were not true.