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

All along, the moment shows, capable thinkers have still been able to find doors into the mainstream media, not to mention doors to new kinds of visibility via YouTube, X and Substack.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

"The reality is twofold. First: Not enough people trust us. Not you. Us. As in: the mainstream media," she said, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

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

From Slate • May 6, 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

It is not widely debated in the mainstream media or, for that matter, in civil rights organizations.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander