demonization

American  

[dee-muh-nahy-zey-shuhn] / ˌdi mə naɪˈzeɪ ʃən /

especially British, demonisation

noun

1. the act or fact of regarding, treating, or speaking of a person or thing as entirely bad.

   These bitter people carry on a systematic, unremitting demonization of the government, blaming it for whatever ails the economy.

2. the act or fact of subjecting a person or thing to the influence of evil spirits; possession or oppression by a demon.

   The effects of curses and occult rituals often involve demonization, and need to be revealed by the Holy Spirit.

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Etymology

Origin of demonization

demoniz(e) ( def. ) + -ation ( def. )

Example Sentences

In my professional opinion, the demonization of hormone replacement therapy for perimenopausal women and the underappreciation of its health benefits ranks among the greatest mistakes of modern medicine.

From The Wall Street Journal

Melanie Phillips, a columnist for the Times of London, says the attack in Manchester “took place against the backdrop of two years of demonization, incitement and intimidation directed at the Jewish community.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“You know what I’m talking … What I’m saying is there was no demonization, amplification about that woman before she died. It was a specific crime against her by somebody who knew her.”

From Los Angeles Times

It is always fascinating to observe how these normalizing views are presented from a place of privilege and far away from the obvious victims of repression and demonization.

From Salon

Knox is well aware that her demonization endures.

From Salon