Standard Lemma guide

brownwash

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To rebrand, cover up or divert attention from amoral, illicit or criminal activities by establishing partnerships or connections with legitimate, value-based organizations e.g. NGOs.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: rare

Examples

  • Company X are brownwashing when they say they are partners with child rights NGO Y, yet employ child labor in their factories in Country Z.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From brown (“best colour to cover up dirt”) + -wash.