Psyop Meaning and Definition
Pronunciation
/ˈsaɪɒp/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A form of psychological operation, typically used by military or intelligence agencies, to manipulate information, perceptions, and attitudes, often using deception, misinformation, or propaganda to influence public opinion.
Examples
- The rumors spread as part of a Psyop to discredit the political opponent.
- The military used Psyops to demoralize the enemy forces.
Synonyms
- Propaganda
- Disinformation
Antonyms
- Truth
- Accuracy
Etymology
The term “Psyop” is derived from the words “Psychological” and “Operation”, and was first used in the 1950s in the United States military to describe a type of psychological warfare.
Usage Notes
Psyops are often used in military contexts, but can also be applied in civilian settings, such as politics, media, and marketing. However, it is essential to distinguish between neutral or accurate information and Psyops.
Cultural References
Psyops have been used and depicted in various works of fiction, including films, literature, and video games.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
None
Related Words or Phrases
- Propaganda
- Disinformation
- Deception
Collocations
- Psyop campaign
- Psyop operation
Frequency of Use
Psyops are relatively rare in everyday language, but have been increasingly used in modern warfare and international relations.
Common Misspellings
Gerbera