1. psychological manipulation intended to make someone question their own memory, perception, or sanity
Usage: modern usage; often used in contexts of emotional abuse or toxic relationships

1. to manipulate someone psychologically so that they doubt their own memory, perception, or sanity
Usage: modern usage; transitive verb

Examples

• Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse that can cause serious psychological harm.
• She accused her partner of gaslighting her by constantly denying things he had said.
• The politician was accused of gaslighting voters by denying statements he had made on camera.
• He kept gaslighting her by telling her she was too sensitive and overreacting.
• Recognizing gaslighting is the first step toward protecting yourself from manipulation.
• The therapist explained how gaslighting erodes a person's confidence and self-trust.
• They were gaslighting him about the meeting time, making him doubt his own notes.