headlined

Headlined is the past tense and past participle of the verb headline. It is used in two main domains: journalism and live entertainment. In journalism, to headline a story means to present it as the prominent item, typically at the top of a front page or home page. Phrases such as “the story headlined today’s edition” or “the report headlined the morning bulletin” are common, with headlined indicating the story’s dominant position.

In entertainment, to headline a concert, tour, or festival means to be the main attraction or act. The event is described as headlined by a particular artist or group, for example, “The festival was headlined by Coldplay” or “The concert was headlined by The Weeknd.” In this sense, headlining denotes the primary act around which the event is organized, often accompanied by supporting or opening acts.

Etymology and relationship to related terms: headlined derives from the noun headline, originally the prominent line at the top of a newspaper page. As a verb, headline or headlining is commonly used in present tense, with headlined serving as the past tense. Related terms include headliner (the main act) and headlining (the present participle).

Usage notes: headlined is broadly understood in English-language media and event reporting. It is typically transitive, taking a direct object (e.g., a story, article, show) or used with by to indicate the main performer. While similar to headline as a noun, headline as a verb is most often expressed in the active voice with headlined describing a completed action.