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

The problem is in today’s world, the movies always want to sensationalize it. — Ramin Setoodeh, Variety, 5 Nov. 2026

And there’s been so much written and said about Matthew over the years that’s really been sensationalized or derogatory. — Whitney Friedlander, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026

Unfortunately, so much about crime and punishment is politicized and sensationalized that even common-sense solutions can seem beyond reach. — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Oct. 2026

Sorkin’s forte is the zippy, quippy, expository argument, simplified and sensationalized for public consumption. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 7 Oct. 2026

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