sensational

Sensational is an adjective used to describe something that elicits strong feelings, interest, or excitement. It often involves vivid, dramatic, or shocking elements and may be presented in a way that prioritizes impact over nuance. In everyday usage, sensational can carry a negative connotation when it suggests embellishment or hype.

Etymology: The word derives from sensation, via the sense of producing or arousing strong feelings. In English, sensational appeared in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, initially in general contexts and later increasingly in reference to media and dramatic arts.

In journalism and publishing, sensationalism denotes a style that emphasizes startling details, provocative headlines, and emotionally charged language. It is closely associated with tabloid formats and certain crime or scandal coverage. Critics argue that sensationalism can distort facts, manipulate audiences, or trivialize serious topics, while supporters contend it helps attract attention to important issues.

Beyond media, sensational is used to describe events, performances, or works of art that are unusually dramatic or extraordinary, such as sensational discoveries or sensational fashion. The term's value depends on context and intent, ranging from descriptive to pejorative.

Related terms include sensationalism and sensationalistic. Synonyms include dramatic, lurid, gaudy, and spectacular. The concept remains a point of debate in discussions about media ethics, audience engagement, and the balance between attracting attention and maintaining accuracy.