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Definition of deprogram

deprogram

/diːˈproʊɡræm/
(UK: deprogramme)
de · pro · gram
Adjective:deprogrammable
•
Past Simple:deprogrammed
•
Past Participle:deprogrammed
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Present Participle:deprogramming
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deprogram Lexical Profile

deprogram Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To free or dissuade a person from previously indoctrinated beliefs, habits, or ideologies, especially those acquired through a cult or extremist group.

Example

"The counselor worked for months to deprogram the former members and help them reintegrate into society."

2

To remove, erase, or reset the programmed instructions or settings from an electronic device or system.

Example

"Before returning the security keycard to the front desk, the technician had to deprogram its access credentials."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for deprogram
Antonyms
View all antonyms for deprogram

• Rhymes for deprogram

• Nearby Words

deprive
deprived
depriver
deprogram
deprogramming
depth
depth gauge

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 1970s in the United States, combining the prefix 'de-' (indicating reversal or removal) with 'program', originally in the context of countering indoctrination by religious cults.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Deprogram. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/deprogram
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