sensationalize

verb

sen·​sa·​tion·​al·​ize sen-ˈsā-sh(ə-)nə-ˌlīz 

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

Media personalities, from journalists to hack YouTubers, will find a way to sensationalize trauma, while wannabe comedians will always find something funny. —Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 3 July 2025

This refusal to sensationalize marks a departure from many books and movies with trauma plots. —Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 29 June 2025

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

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sensationalize

• contextualize
• industrialize
• materialise
• materialize
• memorialize
• microenterprise
• overemphasize
• particularize
• revolutionise
• revolutionize
• actualize
• antagonize