The term “brainwasher” is often used to describe someone who manipulates another person’s thoughts and beliefs to suit their own agenda. It is a term that has been used in various contexts, from political propaganda to cults. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of the term “brainwasher.”
Definitions
The term “brainwasher” can be defined as someone who uses psychological techniques to manipulate another person’s thoughts and beliefs. This can include techniques such as hypnosis, persuasion, and indoctrination. The goal of a brainwasher is to change the way a person thinks and behaves in order to further their own agenda.
Origin
The term “brainwasher” was first used in the 1950s during the Korean War. It was used to describe the techniques used by Chinese and North Korean captors to extract false confessions from American prisoners of war. The term gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s during the rise of cults and new religious movements.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a brainwasher is “a person who induces others to accept a belief uncritically or to conform to a pattern of behavior by conditioning.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines a brainwasher as “a person who brainwashes someone else, especially with the aim of changing their beliefs or attitudes.”
Associations
The term “brainwasher” is often associated with cults, political propaganda, and abusive relationships. It is also associated with the idea of mind control and the manipulation of thought and behavior.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of brainwasher include manipulator, indoctrinator, persuader, and influencer.
Antonyms
Antonyms of brainwasher include critical thinker, skeptic, and independent thinker.
The same root words
The root word of brainwasher is “brainwash,” which means to indoctrinate someone with a particular set of beliefs or ideas.
Example Sentences
- The cult leader was a skilled brainwasher who could convince his followers to do anything he wanted.
- The politician was accused of using brainwashing techniques to manipulate his supporters.
- The abusive partner was a master at brainwashing his victim into thinking she was worthless and dependent on him.
- The seminar was criticized for using brainwashing tactics to convince participants to buy into their program.
- The journalist was accused of brainwashing the public with his biased reporting.