as in exaggerates
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.
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensationalizes
Verb
-
The same prime minister who exaggerates his power is also fine with being portrayed as the patsy of more influential actors.—
Aluf Benn,
Foreign Affairs,
10 Nov. 2025 -
Tainy’s Prometheus — is portrayed by Feid, dressed in an oversized leather coat and lit in a manner that exaggerates his grills in an eerie way.—
Juan J. Arroyo,
Rolling Stone,
23 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
Since there are fewer crossing points, the fabric is smoother, Gopinath elaborates.—
Yelena Moroz Alpert,
Architectural Digest,
7 Feb. 2026
-
The Senate bill codifies these eligibility standards for applicants, but elaborates further on what the state will report to the federal government on non-citizens.—
Kayla Dwyer,
IndyStar,
5 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
Finally, advocates can respond to the argument that merit overemphasizes achievements and undervalues people.—
Kenji Yoshino,
Mercury News,
24 Jan. 2026
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.
Cite this Entry
“Sensationalizes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensationalizes. Accessed 18 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
