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mainstream media

American  
[meyn-streem mee-dee-uh] / ˈmeɪnˌstrim ˈmi di ə /

noun

(usually used with a plural verb)
  1. the traditional forms of mass media, as television, radio, magazines, and newspapers, as opposed to online means of mass communication. MSM


Etymology

Origin of mainstream media

First recorded in 1975–80

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.

See Examples For:

AI can be excellent "for visualising the voices of minorities who have struggled to cross the threshold of mainstream media", said the creator, who asked to use the pseudonym Tender Frame.

From Barron's Jun. 30, 2026

"We're going to make sure he's across all mainstream media," Hearn told the Times, external.

From BBC Apr. 30, 2026

Due to mainstream media coverage, he argued, “an idea can become potent through its rapid depiction in culture—including in articles such as this one, which maxes maxxing even as it attempts to minimize it, somewhat.”

From Salon Apr. 6, 2026

“Evie started for women who didn’t feel represented by the mainstream media, for women who love beauty, romance, aspiration,” said Hugoboom, 34.

From The Wall Street Journal Feb. 18, 2026

Finding enough of the mainstream media hostile to their newfound beliefs, spirit supporters started their own publications, such as Spirit Messenger, Spirit World, and Spiritual Telegraph.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

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