sensationalism

noun

sen·sa·tion·al·ism sen-ˈsā-sh(ə-)nə-ˌli-zəm

: empiricism that limits experience as a source of knowledge to sensation or sense perceptions

: the use or effect of sensational subject matter or treatment

sensationalist

sen-ˈsā-sh(ə-)nə-list

adjective or noun

sensationalistic

sen-ˌsā-sh(ə-)nə-ˈli-stik

adjective

Examples of sensationalism in a Sentence

The network was accused of sensationalism in its reporting.

Recent Examples on the Web

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Even in the face of a horrific shark attack, Rescue HI-Surf resists sensationalism. —

Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Sep. 2024 Her journey paints an empathetic portrait of people living on the margins, with director Sean Baker giving them agency, depth and humanity, all while avoiding sensationalism or exploitation. —

Travis Bean, Forbes, 14 Sep. 2024 Is this merely an alien-like claw spectacle made for social media sensationalism or the future of mascara? —

Esther Newman, refinery29.com, 15 Mar. 2024 As the field progresses, staying informed about genuine advancements without succumbing to sensationalism will be key. —

Craig S. Smith, Forbes, 16 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sensationalism

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of sensationalism was in 1846

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Sensationalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensationalism. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Copy Citation