debriefing

American  

[dee-bree-fing] / diˈbri fɪŋ /

noun

1. the process or an instance of formally and systematically questioning participants in order to assess the conduct and results of a mission, project, therapeutic process, etc..

   After the event, a detailed debriefing was conducted to ensure that all possible lessons were learned.

   Empirical studies could evaluate what qualities of therapeutic debriefing most influence patient learning and change.

2. the process or an instance of formally and systematically questioning someone in order to obtain useful intelligence or information.

   Informant debriefings indicated that the primary sources of heroin are New York City–based trafficking organizations.

   Once the tactical debriefing was accomplished, the interrogation crew would determine which prisoners were significant enough to be targeted for high-level interrogation.

3. an instance of information gathering or disclosure.

   Your guide will be able to give you an important safety debriefing and make sure you know what to expect.

4. Psychology. the process or an instance of disclosing information after an experiment in order to inform a subject of the purpose and reasons for any deception or manipulation.

   Another goal of the debriefing is for the researcher to obtain participants' reactions to the study itself.

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Etymology

Origin of debriefing

debrief ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Explanation

A debriefing is a thorough report given by a spy, government agent, or soldier after a mission has ended. During a debriefing, the subject is usually questioned extensively. While a debriefing is typically used for a supervisor to gain as much information as possible about secret, dangerous, or controversial missions, there are also other types of debriefings. After a natural disaster or other traumatic event, counselors sometimes hold debriefings, allowing victims to reflect and deal with trauma. The word was first used in the US military toward the end of World War Two, from the sense of brief that means "inform or instruct."

Example Sentences

Either way, I’m sure there was a debriefing later.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026

Along with their superior speed, the Roche products seem competitive with Illumina’s in accuracy, according to Guggenheim’s report on the debriefing.

From Barron's • Oct. 16, 2025

"Be careful debriefing use of force in the suite," he said.

From BBC • Oct. 1, 2025

“We’ll have a debriefing, and talk about some different things,” pitching coach Mark Prior said when Buehler was first hurt.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2024

“Sorry, Captain. Time is of the essence. The commander wants a debriefing before we detonate.”

From "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer

Related Words

• interrogate