social media

American  

noun

(usually used with a plural verb)

1. websites and other online means of communication that are used by large groups of people to share information and to develop social and professional contacts.

   Many businesses are utilizing social media to generate sales.

---

Etymology

Origin of social media

First recorded in 2000–05

Example Sentences

In July, when the first deportees were sent to Eswatini, a US Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman said on social media they were "so uniquely barbaric that their home countries refused to take them back".

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Festival organisers announced West's appearance on social media last month, prompting criticism from Jewish organisations and London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

None of the social media accounts appeared to be active, or their old posts accessible, as of Monday afternoon.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

It comes amid mounting concerns about the impact of social media and digital technology on children's wellbeing, safety and development.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

I pull out my phone and add the hashtag to our social media, then shovel the eggs into my mouth.

From "Wayward Creatures" by Dayna Lorentz

Related Words

• social platform