sensationalism meaning

sensationalism as a noun

1. subject matter that is calculated to excite and please vulgar tastes

   Type of: message

   Related forms: sensationalistic, sensationalist

2. the journalistic use of subject matter that appeals to vulgar tastes
   • the tabloids relied on sensationalism to maintain their circulation

   Synonyms: luridness

   Type of: journalese

   Related forms: sensationalistic, sensationalist

3. (philosophy) the ethical doctrine that feeling is the only criterion for what is good

   Synonyms: sensualism

   Type of: philosophical doctrine

4. (philosophy) the doctrine that knowledge derives from experience

   Synonyms: empiricism, empiricist philosophy

   Type of: philosophical doctrine

   Kinds: British empiricism, experimentalism, positivism

How to pronounce sensationalism

sensationalism is pronounced /sɛnˈseɪʃənəlɪzəm/ in American English. It has 6 syllables, with the stress on the second syllable.