In general, a message designed to persuade its intended audience to think and behave in a certain manner. Thus advertising is commercial propaganda. In specific, institutionalized and systematic spreading of information and/or disinformation, usually to promote a narrow political or religious viewpoint. Originally, propaganda meant an arm of the Roman Catholic church responsible for 'de propaganda fidei,' propagation of the faith. It acquired negative connotations in the 20th century when totalitarian regimes (principally the Nazi Germany) used every means to distort facts and spread total falsehoods.
Use 'propaganda' in a Sentence
The portrayal of the rebel army as fearsome warriors was nothing but propaganda which was meant to inspire more people at home to join and help the war effort.
There is so much propaganda in our society telling us what to do and say and buy, I really hate it all so very much and want to live in the woods.
While advertising agencies often contend that they are capable of producing artistic and aesthetically pleasing designs, critics assert that they merely produce corporate propaganda for the sole purpose of increasing profit.
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