polverone

Polverone is an Italian noun used to denote a large uproar, controversy, or fuss, especially one that is amplified by media coverage. It is informal and commonly found in journalism, political commentary, and popular discourse.

Etymology: The term derives from polvere, meaning dust, with the augmentative suffix -one, yielding literally a big cloud of dust. Figuratively, its imagery suggests a small issue kicking up a figurative dust storm.

Usage: Polverone is often paired with mediatico to form polverone mediatico, highlighting the role of the press in inflating attention. It can refer to political, legal, or cultural episodes where scrutiny or sensationalism grows beyond the original matter. Verbal forms include sollevare un polverone (to raise a dust storm) or fare un polverone (to cause a fuss).

Synonyms and related terms include furore, scalpore, and clamore; the expression emphasizes sensationalism. The term is widely understood in contemporary Italian and carries a slightly vivid or colorful tone without being technical jargon.