sensationalize

verb

sen·​sa·​tion·​al·​ize sen-ˈsā-sh(ə-)nə-ˌlīz How to pronounce sensationalize (audio)
sensationalized; sensationalizing

transitive verb

: to present in a sensational manner

Examples of sensationalize in a Sentence

Journalists should report the news accurately without trying to sensationalize it.
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.
Director: Gianna Toboni Screenwriters: Gianna Toboni, Jacqueline Toboni, Samantha Wender 1 hour 33 minutes But these aesthetic choices never sensationalize the realities of these participants, instead underscoring the harrowing stakes of their experiences. Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 13 June 2025 In this stage, early adopters have started implementing the technology, and media coverage often sensationalizes its potential. Karl Moore, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025 Without social media, television or telephones of any kind, Willig illustrates how this trial became sensationalized and angry crowds swayed public opinion — the 19th-century version of canceling. Oline H. Cogdill, Sun Sentinel, 13 Mar. 2025 Some conservative groups in South Africa have misrepresented facts about farm murders, sensationalizing them by fixating on exceptionally violent cases and promoting the idea that all farm murders are politically and racially motivated. Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 14 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensationalize

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensationalize was in 1863

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sensationalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensationalize. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on sensationalize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!