Gaslighting
Definition
Manipulating someone into questioning their own reality, memory, or perception. Named after the 1944 film 'Gaslight.' Went mainstream in the 2010s, now used (and overused) to describe any form of disagreement or manipulation. Merriam-Webster's word of the year in 2022.
Translation for Parents
Gaslighting is when someone manipulates you into doubting your own experiences. Your kid probably uses it accurately sometimes ('my teacher gaslit the whole class about the due date') and loosely other times ('you're gaslighting me' when you say dinner is at 6 and they swear you said 7). The word has been stretched thin, but the concept is real and worth knowing.
Examples
“stop gaslighting me i know what you said”
“Stop trying to make me doubt what happened, I remember clearly”
“that's literally gaslighting”
“That's manipulative behavior designed to make someone question reality”
Cringe Score
Safe to use
This is regular vocabulary now, not slang. You can use it. Just make sure you're using it correctly, because your kid WILL correct you.
Category
relationship
Peak
2022-01
Last Verified
2026-02-25
Sources
editorial