Definition of propaganda

Email this page to a friend

< propaedeutic

propagandize >

prop·a·gan·da    (prp-gnd) KEY 

NOUN:

1. The systematic propagation of a doctrine or cause or of information reflecting the views and interests of those advocating such a doctrine or cause.
2. Material disseminated by the advocates or opponents of a doctrine or cause: wartime propaganda.
3. Propaganda Roman Catholic Church A division of the Roman Curia that has authority in the matter of preaching the gospel, of establishing the Church in non-Christian countries, and of administering Church missions in territories where there is no properly organized hierarchy.

---

ETYMOLOGY:
Short for New Latin Sacra Congregti d Prpagand Fid, Sacred Congregation for Propagating the Faith (established 1622), from ablative feminine gerundive of Latin prpgre, to propagate ; see propagate

OTHER FORMS:
propa·gandism(Noun), propa·gandist(Noun), propa·gan·distic(Adjective), propa·gan·disti·cal·ly(Adverb)