sensationalized

past tense of sensationalize
as in exaggerated
disapproving to describe or show something in a way that makes it seem more shocking than it really is Journalists should report the news accurately without trying to sensationalize it.

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sensationalized In that aspect, The Whisper Man serves as a commentary on how serial killers are not only sensationalized in pop culture, but given borderline celebrity status. Josh Weiss, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Co-directed by Alexandra Orton, the film combines Maddox’s personal video diaries, therapy sessions, and exclusive interviews while descending into Manson’s early background and sensationalized media persona as a monster. Jake Kring-Schreifels, Time, 22 July 2026 That tragic moment was sensationalized in the press and for years was among the first things mentioned when discussing her work and legacy. Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 15 July 2026 While local authorities say these takeovers are a problem, legal experts say they're being sensationalized in media reports and online. Saleen Martin, USA Today, 2 June 2026 One of the things that really compelled me about this season was Sam has not sensationalized the important issues of drug use. Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 1 June 2026 The violence is not sensationalized, where nothing comes of it. ArsTechnica, 13 May 2026 Sauceda said that while there is some truth to the claim in the video, it’s sensationalized and more likely just set up in a way to stop you from scrolling and scare you. Eleesha Lockett, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2026 Bear attacks are largely over reported, and often sensationalized, in the media, escalating our fear of bears. Literary Hub, 3 Mar. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensationalized
Verb
  • The brothers' lawyers have argued that the two have exaggerated their wealth as part of their public personas and should be released on bond.
    Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 9 Sep. 2026
  • Tesla released its Autopilot driver-assist system in 2015 (and then the Full Self-Driving Beta program in 2020), marketing the new technology with ads that exaggerated the car’s powers.
    Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 8 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • In a previous interview with People on July 29, the Queen of Country Pop elaborated on missing the ceremony.
    Juliana Ukiomogbe, InStyle, 10 Sep. 2026
  • In a separate tweet thread, Coxon elaborated on his motivation.
    Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 9 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sensationalized.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensationalized. Accessed 18 Sep. 2026.

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