Simple Definition:
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation [influencing someone’s behavior or thoughts in a deceptive way] where a person makes another person question their own reality and sanity. This is often done through denying or distorting [changing or twisting] facts, making the victim doubt their own memory and perception.
For example, if someone constantly tells their partner that they are forgetful and can’t remember things that happened, when they never actually happened, the partner may start to doubt their own memory and perception.
Very Simple Definition:
Gaslighting is when someone tricks another person into doubting their own memory and perception.
For example, if someone tells their friend that they never said they would meet them for lunch when they actually did, and then accuses their friend of forgetting, that’s gaslighting.