true crime

noun

: a nonfiction genre of literature, film, podcasts, etc. that depicts and examines real crime cases

Fans of true crime will enjoy this collection of tales from the annals of American justice …

—Jennifer Moore

—usually used before another noun

a true crime podcast/documentary/novel

In each episode, legal and criminal justice experts give you the inside scoop on the most shocking true crime stories … to hit the news.

—LeeAnn Huntoon

As true crime podcasts, TV shows, books and online content continue to prove popular, cases never truly fade from the spotlight.

—Bethany Bruner

Examples of true crime in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Outside the courtroom of this trial, traditional TV cameras sit side-by-side with cellphone cameras manned by new media journalists and commentators feeding an audience hungry, not just for true crime, but also for a look back in time. — Andy Rose, CNN Money, 22 Aug. 2026

The impact of the series and the reach of true crime have been undeniable. — Hunter Ingram, Variety, 21 Aug. 2026

Women heavily lead or outnumber men in high-engagement categories like true crime, relationships, self-improvement, and society-and-culture. — Frank Racioppi, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026

Shelves at The Inked Page are already full of mystery, thriller and true crime on the right side of the store. — Kansas City Star, 18 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for true crime

• airtime
• bedtime
• daytime
• downtime
• enzyme
• halftime
• lifetime
• longtime
• lunchtime
• mealtime
• meantime
• nighttime