DEVILIZE Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "devilize" is a verb that refers to the act of demonizing or portraying someone or something as evil, diabolical, or wicked. It is derived from the noun "devil" and the suffix "-ize," which indicates the action or process of making or becoming like the noun or base word.
When a person or entity is devilized, they are usually falsely ascribed with malevolent qualities and unjustifiably depicted as a figure of evil or villainy. This can be done through various means like spreading false rumors, distorting facts, or exaggerating negative characteristics or past actions. Devilizing can also include the creation of negative stereotypes, stigmatization, or scapegoating.
The use of devilization is often employed in political, social, or ideological contexts as a means to delegitimize, vilify, or ostracize opponents, dissidents, or individuals who hold differing beliefs. It aims to manipulate public opinion and generate fear, hatred, or disgust towards the subject being devilized. This can facilitate misinformation campaigns, hostility, discrimination, or even persecution, leading to the marginalization or isolation of the targeted individual or group.
However, it is important to note that devilizing is a subjective and biased process, and its validity relies on the accuracy and fairness of the claims made against the subject. It is therefore crucial to critically analyze and verify information presented when evaluating whether devilization is justified or merely a strategic attempt to discredit someone or something.
Common Misspellings for DEVILIZE
- sevilize
- xevilize
- cevilize
- fevilize
- revilize
- eevilize
- dwvilize
- dsvilize
- ddvilize
- drvilize
- d4vilize
- d3vilize
- decilize
- debilize
- degilize
- defilize
- devulize
- devjlize
- devklize
Etymology of DEVILIZE
The word "devilize" is a derivative of the noun "devil", which in turn originates from the Old English word "dēofol". The Old English term was derived from the Late Latin word "diabolus", which ultimately comes from the Greek word "diabolos". In Greek, "diabolos" meant "slanderer" or "accuser", and it was used as a translation for the Hebrew word "satan", meaning "adversary" or "opposer". Over time, the meaning of "devil" evolved to refer to an evil supernatural being or a personification of wickedness. The verb "devilize" was formed in English by adding the suffix "-ize" to the noun form, intending to mean "to portray or treat as a devil".
Similar spelling words for DEVILIZE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
