Demonize: meaning, definitions and examples
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demonize
[ ˈdiːməˌnaɪz ]
in politics
To portray or represent as evil or diabolical, especially in order to influence public opinion or gain political advantage.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- They tried to demonize their political opponents by spreading false rumors.
- The media often demonizes certain groups to push their own agenda.
in religion
To make someone or something appear evil or demonic, usually through supernatural means.
Synonyms
dehumanize, demonify, demonise
Examples of usage
- The cult leaders were able to demonize their followers through mind control techniques.
- Some religious texts demonize certain practices to instill fear in their followers.
Translations
Translations of the word "demonize" in other languages:
🇵🇹 demonizar
🇮🇳 राक्षसीकरण करना
🇩🇪 dämonisieren
🇮🇩 mendemoniakan
🇺🇦 демонізувати
🇵🇱 demonizować
🇯🇵 悪魔化する
🇫🇷 diaboliser
🇪🇸 demonizar
🇹🇷 şeytanlaştırmak
🇰🇷 악마화하다
🇸🇦 شيطنة
🇨🇿 démonizovat
🇸🇰 démonizovať
🇨🇳 妖魔化
🇸🇮 demonizirati
🇮🇸 djöflast
🇰🇿 жындандыру
🇬🇪 დემონიზება
🇦🇿 şeytanlaşdırmaq
🇲🇽 demonizar
Word origin
The word 'demonize' originated from the combination of 'demon' and the suffix '-ize', which means 'to render or make'. It first appeared in the mid-19th century. The concept of demonizing has been used throughout history in various contexts, from politics to religion, to create fear or aversion towards certain individuals or groups.
See also: demoniac, demonic, demonify, demonise, demonstrate.