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
sen-ˈsā-sh(ə-)nə-list How to pronounce sensationalism (audio)
adjective or noun
sensationalistic
sen-ˌsā-sh(ə-)nə-ˈli-stik How to pronounce sensationalism (audio)
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.
The algorithms reward sensationalism and conflict, and Mockler is willing to lean in for his cause. — Edward Robert McClelland, Chicago Tribune, 13 Oct. 2026 Boyle, director of Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire and 28 Days Later, said the film showcases an integral origin story that speaks to the sensationalism of our current climate. — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 12 Oct. 2026 What Globo has created with ‘The Others’ isn’t sensationalism. — Marta Balaga, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026 There may have been little place for critique in his early images of the luxe life, but their satirical edge sharpened over time, hitting a peak in a spoof of tabloid sensationalism in the September, 1962, issue. — Vince Aletti, New Yorker, 10 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for sensationalism

See All Rhymes for sensationalism

Browse Nearby Words

sensationalise
sensationalism
sensationalist
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Cite this Entry

“Sensationalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensationalism. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on sensationalism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sensationalism

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