Demonize: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the act of portraying someone or something as evil or malevolent, often unfairly. Suitable for contexts involving media or political rhetoric.

• The media tends to demonize those with opposing viewpoints.
• He was unfairly demonized by his opponents during the election.

Used to describe the act of speaking or writing about someone in a very negative and damaging way. Often used in legal, professional, or formal contexts.

• He was vilified in the press after the scandal.
• The lawyer claimed that his client was being vilified without any proof.

This is the British spelling of 'demonize' and shares the same usage and connotations. Used mainly in British English.

• The British tabloids demonise immigrants to sell more newspapers.
• Environmental activists often feel demonised by large corporations.

Used to describe the act of portraying someone as a villain or bad person. Often used in storytelling, media, or personal narratives.

• The protagonist was unfairly villainized by her stepmother.
• Despite his good intentions, his rivals constantly tried to villainize him.

Duplicated and same as the first instance mentioned.

• Activists felt the documentary unfairly demonized their movement.
• He tends to demonize anyone who disagrees with him.

Less commonly used and somewhat redundant, generally conveys the same meaning as 'demonize'. It may appear in creative or informal contexts.

• Some stories demonify mythical creatures, turning them into villains.

The British English spelling of 'demonize', used in the same contexts but in British publications or by British speakers.

• The press sought to demonise the politician for his controversial statements.
• Bad behaviors of a few can demonise an entire group.

Applicable when treating someone as though they are less than human, removing their individuality and humanity. Often used in the context of war, slavery, or intense prejudice.

• Propaganda can dehumanize the enemy, making them easier to fight against.
• Dehumanizing language was used to justify horrible acts during history.