1
a
: the collection and editing of news for presentation through the media
b
: the public press
c
: an academic study concerned with the collection and editing of news or the management of a news medium
2
a
: writing designed for publication in a newspaper or magazine
b
: writing characterized by a direct presentation of facts or description of events without an attempt at interpretation
c
: writing designed to appeal to current popular taste or public interest

Examples of journalism in a Sentence

She plans to major in journalism when she goes to college.
Recent Examples on the Web
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The honor, announced today, promotes the practice of investigative journalism exemplifying compassion, courage and integrity. Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026 Reporters at the newspaper also were finalists for the prestigious journalism award in 2000, again for investigative reporting, and in 2006 in the public service category. Kate Brumback, Fortune, 10 Sep. 2026 Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism. Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 9 Sep. 2026 The journalism major used his social media skills to raise awareness. ABC News, 9 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for journalism

Word History

First Known Use

1791, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of journalism was in 1791

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Journalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/journalism. Accessed 15 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

1
: the collecting and editing of news to be presented online, in newspapers or magazines, or over television or radio
2
: writing designed for or characteristic of newspapers or magazines
journalistic
ˌjərn-ᵊl-ˈis-tik
adjective

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