sensationalism

noun

sen·​sa·​tion·​al·​ism sen-ˈsā-sh(ə-)nə-ˌli-zəm 

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 

adjective or noun

sensationalistic

sen-ˌsā-sh(ə-)nə-ˈli-stik 

adjective

Examples of sensationalism in a Sentence

The network was accused of sensationalism in its reporting.

Recent Examples on the Web

Many films have depicted alcoholism with varying degrees of accuracy mixed with a large dose of sensationalism. —Lipi Roy, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025

Rodriguez wanted sensationalism and to create content for her YouTube channel, Whelchel said during his opening statement. —Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 June 2025

The streaming service offers documentaries to people who love learning and are looking for a reliable source of educational media with no sensationalism or political agendas. —ArsTechnica, 4 Aug. 2025

Traditional charity films often swing between two extremes: earnestness that bores or sensationalism that exploits. —Afdhel Aziz, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sensationalism

• absolutism
• adventurism
• aestheticism
• africanism
• agnosticism
• alcoholism
• anabolism
• anachronism
• anglicanism
• antagonism
• arianism
• asceticism