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Definition of sensationalism

sensationalism

/sɛnˈseɪʃənəˌlɪzəm/
sen · sa · tion · al · ism
Adverb:sensationalistically
•
Plural:sensationalisms
•
Adjective:sensationalistic
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sensationalism Lexical Profile

sensationalism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The presentation of stories in a way that is intended to provoke public interest or excitement, at the expense of accuracy (especially in journalism).

Example

"Critics accused the tabloid newspaper of relying on cheap sensationalism rather than investigative reporting to boost its circulation."

2

The epistemological doctrine that all knowledge is derived ultimately from sensory perceptions and experiences (in philosophy).

Example

"Eighteenth-century French philosophers developed sensationalism by arguing that every mental idea originates in physical sensation."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for sensationalism

• Nearby Words

senorita
sensation
sensational
sensationalism
sensationalist
sensationalistic
sensationalize

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-19th century from 'sensational' plus '-ism', originally as a philosophical term before shifting in the 1860s to criticize exaggerated journalism and melodramatic literature.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sensationalism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sensationalism
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