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Definition of mindreading

mindreading

/ˈmaɪndˌriː.dɪŋ/
mind · read · ing
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mindreading Lexical Profile

mindreading Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The supposed paranormal ability to discern the thoughts of others without the use of normal sensory channels; telepathy.

Example

"The stage magician's convincing act of mindreading left the entire audience baffled."

2

In psychology and cognitive science, the cognitive capacity to attribute mental states—such as beliefs, intents, desires, and emotions—to oneself and others, or the cognitive distortion of assuming one knows what others are thinking without sufficient evidence.

Example

"Cognitive behavioral therapists often help patients recognize when they are engaging in negative mindreading during social interactions."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for mindreading

Word Nuance & Usage

In cognitive psychology, 'mindreading' refers to the everyday human ability to infer others' mental states (theory of mind), whereas in popular usage it typically denotes supernatural telepathy.

• Nearby Words

mindlessly
mindlessness
mindreader
mindreading
mindset
mine
mineable

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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