demonize
UK: ˈdiːmənaɪz | US: ˈdiːmənaɪz
vt. to portray as evil or threatening
vt. to attribute demonic qualities to someone or something
The word "demonize" combines "demon" (from Greek daimōn, originally meaning "spirit" or "divine power," later evolving into "malevolent entity" in Christian theology) with the suffix "-ize," which turns nouns into verbs meaning "to make or treat as." The term reflects the process of vilifying individuals or groups by associating them with demonic imagery, a concept rooted in religious and cultural narratives of evil.
Politicians often demonize their opponents to sway public opinion.
The media was accused of trying to demonize protesters.
Some religions historically demonized certain natural phenomena.
It’s unethical to demonize entire communities based on stereotypes.
The film deliberately demonizes the antagonist to heighten tension.