deprogram

[dee-proh-gram]

verb (used with object)

deprogrammed, deprogramed, deprogramming, deprograming. 

1. to free (a convert) from the influence of a religious cult, political indoctrination, etc., by intensive persuasion or reeducation.

2. to retrain, as for the purpose of eliminating or replacing a learned or acquired behavior pattern or habit that is undesirable or unsuitable.

Other Word Forms

• deprogrammer noun
• deprogramer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of deprogram¹

An Americanism dating back to 1970–75; de- + program

Example Sentences

Toss it on, let the bops bop, and maybe help deprogram your local Disney adult.

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It has been a 20-year process to deprogram that worldview.

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Clinton’s hope to deprogram Trump followers, unfortunately, faces an uphill road.

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Ramer is political director for the Republican Accountability Project, a group working to deprogram members of the Cult of Trump.

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Steven Hassan is one of the world's leading experts on cults and other dangerous organizations, as well as how to deprogram people who have succumbed to "mind control."

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