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

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Etymology

Origin of mainstream media

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Less than 10 years ago, Kelly, then a Fox News anchor, was gunning for a career in mainstream media.

From Slate • May 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

While Martin reigned supreme on the top charts — and as his hypnotic music video circulated across the popular MTV channel — the mainstream media would zero in on more than his music.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 10, 2026

So far, too much of the mainstream media has chosen the latter.

From Salon • Jan. 5, 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