sensationalist
Americanadjective
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of or relating to subject matter, language, or style intended to provoke strong emotions, especially at the expense of factual accuracy.
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of or relating to the philosophical doctrine of sensationalism.
noun
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a writer or journalist who deliberately designs content to provoke strong emotions, especially at the expense of factual accuracy.
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a person who follows or advocates for the philosophical doctrine of sensationalism.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Fruit is an absurd but also simple way to reflect the formulaic, sensationalist and stereotypical world of dating reality TV, Lupinacci said.
From Barron's ● Apr. 3, 2026
And it made a lot of money, albeit as a critical sensation rather than a sensationalist B-movie.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 30, 2025
Contrary to sensationalist media coverage, decisions made by the Wikipedia community tend to be carefully considered.
From Slate ● Feb. 5, 2025
Meieran used to write off some of the more sensationalist legends about Clifton’s, like rumors of a mistress’ remains being scattered in the ballroom.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 4, 2024
“Do not listen to him. That is an oversimplication of things. A sensationalist view of it. One to encourage confusion. Many things that are misunderstood are labeled dangerous,” Gia replied.
From "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
