sensationalism

noun

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

1

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

2

: 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

Recognizing that sensationalism draws viewers, Trump’s unbridled ramblings drive the news media’s uneven coverage. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 12 Oct. 2024

Media sensationalism traps us in echo chambers, drowning out differing opinions and stifling debate. —Richard Torrenzano, Fortune, 11 Sep. 2024

In reality, the imaginary of a race began with and was propagated because of exaggerations for political effect, media sensationalism, and fundamental misunderstandings of Arctic sovereignty, jurisdiction, and international legal regimes. —Andreas Kuersten, Foreign Affairs, 20 Aug. 2015

Many in the community felt that Hoback prioritized sensationalism rather than conducting thorough research, turning what could have been an insightful exploration into a speculative thriller. —Vinamrata Chaturvedi, Quartz, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined at sense 1