deprogram

[ dee-proh-gram ]

verb (used with object)

, de·pro·grammed or de·pro·gramed, de·pro·gram·ming or de·pro·gram·ing.

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 Words From

• de·program·mer de·program·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of deprogram¹

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

Example Sentences

Established in 2004, its aim is to deprogram Chinese teenagers—mostly boys—who suffer from an “Internet addiction.”

From The Daily Beast