sensationalism

noun

sen·​sa·​tion·​al·​ism sen-ˈsā-sh(ə-)nə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce sensationalism (audio)
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 adjective or noun
sensationalistic adjective

Examples of sensationalism in a Sentence

The network was accused of sensationalism in its reporting.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But the director and his actors play it with neither sensationalism nor melodrama. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 15 Feb. 2025 Like certain characters whose sad fates only become legible after six elusive episodes, viewers stuck on the particulars of a series that leads with silly sensationalism miss our chance to get on board. Judy Berman, TIME, 24 Jan. 2025 Choose reputable sources that focus on facts rather than sensationalism. Amy Blankson, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 With today’s appetite for sensationalism and controversy, the media may jump on anything that even has a hint of indiscretion. Chad Angle, Forbes, 2 Jan. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Sensationalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensationalism. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

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