Top 28 Slang For News – Meaning & Usage

Stay up-to-date with the latest lingo in the world of news with our list of top slang terms used in the industry. From breaking stories to viral headlines, we’ve got you covered with the most essential phrases that will have you talking like a seasoned news pro in no time. Let’s dive in and decode the language of the newsroom together!

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1. Scoop

A “scoop” refers to a news story or information that is obtained and published before any other news outlet. It is often used to describe a story that is considered groundbreaking or has significant impact.

For example, “The journalist managed to get the scoop on the corruption scandal before anyone else.”
In a newsroom, a reporter might say, “I need to find a scoop for tomorrow’s edition.”
A news article might be titled, “Breaking: Exclusive Scoop Reveals Government Cover-Up.”

2. Headlines

The “headlines” are the most important news stories of the day, typically summarized in a brief and attention-grabbing manner. It is often used to refer to the main stories that are featured at the top of a news website or in a newspaper’s front page.

For instance, “I read the headlines every morning to stay updated on current events.”
During a news broadcast, the anchor might say, “Let’s take a look at the headlines for today.”
A news website might have a section titled “Top Headlines” to highlight the most significant stories.

3. Breaking news

“Breaking news” refers to news that is happening at the moment or has just occurred and is of immediate interest or importance to the public. It is often used to grab attention and indicate that the information is fresh and rapidly evolving.

For example, “We interrupt this program with breaking news.”
A news alert might be titled, “Breaking News: Earthquake Strikes City.”
A news anchor might say, “We have some breaking news coming in. Let’s go live to our reporter on the scene.”

4. Update

An “update” refers to new information or the latest developments on a particular news story. It is often used to inform the audience that there has been a change or progress in a previously reported story.

For instance, “Stay tuned for updates on the ongoing investigation.”
A news article might have a section titled “Latest Updates” to provide readers with the most recent information.
During a live news report, a journalist might say, “I have an update on the situation. Authorities have just released a statement.”

5. Bulletin

A “bulletin” is a brief news report that provides important information or updates on a specific topic. It is often used to convey breaking news or urgent updates in a concise and easily digestible format.

For example, “The school sent out a bulletin to parents regarding the upcoming event.”
A news channel might display a “Breaking News Bulletin” graphic on the screen to alert viewers.
A journalist might say, “We have a bulletin just in. The mayor has announced new measures to combat crime.”

6. Exclusive

This term refers to news or information that is reported by only one source, making it unique and not available elsewhere. It often implies that the information is important or significant.

For example, a news outlet might report, “We have an exclusive interview with the president.”
A journalist might say, “I just got an exclusive scoop on the upcoming election.”
In a discussion about news coverage, someone might comment, “Exclusives can greatly impact public opinion and shape the narrative.”

7. Press release

A press release is a written or recorded communication that is distributed to the media for the purpose of announcing something newsworthy. It is typically issued by a company, organization, or government agency.

For instance, a company might issue a press release to announce a new product launch.
A government agency might release a statement on policy changes through a press release.
In a conversation about media relations, someone might say, “A well-crafted press release can generate significant media coverage.”

8. Hot off the press

This phrase indicates that something is newly printed or published and therefore very current or up-to-date. It implies that the information is recent and may not be widely known yet.

For example, a newspaper vendor might shout, “Get your hot off the press newspapers!”
A book reviewer might say, “I just finished reading a hot off the press novel.”
In a discussion about breaking news, someone might comment, “I always check for hot off the press updates on major events.”

9. Front page news

This term refers to news or information that is considered important or significant enough to be featured on the front page of a newspaper or news website. It implies that the news is of high public interest.

For instance, a news anchor might say, “Coming up, we have some front page news to share.”
A journalist might write, “The scandal made front page news across the country.”
In a conversation about media coverage, someone might comment, “Front page news can greatly influence public perception.”

10. Buzz

This slang term refers to the excitement or attention surrounding a particular news story or event. It implies that the news is generating a lot of discussion or interest.

For example, a reporter might say, “There’s a lot of buzz around the upcoming movie release.”
A social media influencer might post, “Have you heard the buzz about the new fashion trend?”
In a discussion about media impact, someone might comment, “Generating buzz is crucial for a successful marketing campaign.”

11. Newsflash

This term is used to describe a sudden and important news update that interrupts regular programming. It often refers to a significant event or development that is just coming to light.

For example, a news anchor might say, “We interrupt this program for a newsflash: there has been a major earthquake in the city.”
A reporter might write, “In a newsflash, the president announced his resignation, shocking the nation.”
Another example could be, “Newsflash: The stock market just hit an all-time high, surprising investors.”

12. Feature story

A feature story is a piece of journalism that goes beyond the basic facts and provides more detailed information or analysis. It often focuses on a specific topic or individual and is intended to engage and captivate readers.

For instance, a magazine might publish a feature story about a famous musician, delving into their personal life and career.
A journalist might write, “In my feature story on climate change, I interviewed experts and explored the impact on local communities.”
Another example could be, “The newspaper’s feature story on the history of the city was well-researched and informative.”

13. Press conference

A press conference is a formal event where a spokesperson or public figure addresses the media and answers questions. It is a way for organizations or individuals to make announcements or provide information to the public through the media.

For example, a government official might hold a press conference to discuss new policies or address a crisis.
A journalist might report, “During the press conference, the CEO of the company answered questions about the recent scandal.”
Another example could be, “The press conference held by the sports team’s coach revealed the strategy for the upcoming game.”

14. Lead story

The lead story is the most important and prominent news article or segment in a publication or news broadcast. It is usually given priority placement due to its significance or relevance.

For instance, a newspaper might have the lead story on the front page, highlighting the most important news of the day.
A news anchor might say, “In tonight’s broadcast, the lead story is the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.”
Another example could be, “The website’s lead story focuses on the latest breakthrough in medical research.”

15. Soundbite

A soundbite is a short excerpt or clip from a speech, interview, or statement that is particularly memorable or newsworthy. It is often used in news reports to highlight a key point or capture the essence of a larger story.

For example, a news segment might include a soundbite from a politician’s speech to emphasize their stance on an issue.
A journalist might write, “The soundbite from the CEO’s press conference went viral, sparking a heated debate.”
Another example could be, “During the interview, the celebrity’s soundbite about their upcoming project generated buzz among fans.”

16. Spin

This refers to the intentional manipulation or distortion of information to shape public opinion or perception. Spin is often used to present a certain perspective or bias, often in favor of a particular individual or organization.

For example, a politician might put a positive spin on a controversial policy by emphasizing its potential benefits.
A news article might criticize a company for using spin to downplay a scandal.
In a heated debate, one person might accuse the other of spinning the facts to support their argument.

17. Wire

Refers to a news agency or service that provides news articles, reports, and updates to various media outlets. The term “wire” comes from the early days of news transmission when news stories were sent through telegraph wires.

For instance, a journalist might say, “I work for the Associated Press, a wire service that provides news to newspapers around the world.”
In a newsroom, an editor might assign a reporter to cover a breaking story from the wire.
A news anchor might introduce a story by saying, “According to the latest report from the wire, a major earthquake has struck the region.”

18. Tabloid fodder

Refers to news stories that are sensational, scandalous, or of little substance but are still covered by tabloid newspapers and magazines. Tabloid fodder often includes celebrity gossip, rumors, and stories that focus on personal drama rather than serious news.

For example, a headline might read, “Tabloid Fodder: Celebrity X Caught in Scandalous Affair.”
A journalist might criticize the media for focusing on tabloid fodder instead of important issues.
In a discussion about media ethics, someone might argue that tabloid fodder undermines the credibility of journalism.

19. News flash

A term used to indicate the sudden and unexpected arrival of important news or information. A news flash typically interrupts regular programming or news updates to deliver urgent or significant updates to the audience.

For instance, a news anchor might say, “We interrupt our regular programming for a news flash: there has been a major earthquake in the region.”
In a conversation about current events, someone might say, “Did you hear the news flash about the stock market crash?”
A news article might start with the headline, “News Flash: New evidence emerges in high-profile murder case.”

20. News cycle

Refers to the continuous and cyclical process of news production, distribution, and consumption. The news cycle encompasses the various stages of news, from gathering information and reporting to editing, publishing, and audience engagement.

For example, a journalist might say, “This story has been in the news cycle for weeks, with new developments every day.”
In a discussion about media bias, someone might argue that certain stories receive more attention in the news cycle than others.
A news producer might plan the coverage of a major event by considering its impact on the news cycle.

21. Wire report

A wire report is a news article that is written and distributed by a wire service, such as the Associated Press (AP) or Reuters. These reports are often published by various news outlets.

For example, “According to a wire report, the stock market experienced a significant drop today.”
A news anchor might say, “We have a breaking story from the wire report about a major political scandal.”
A journalist might mention, “I found some interesting information in a recent wire report about climate change.”

22. Newsroom

A newsroom is a central location where journalists, editors, and other news personnel work together to gather and produce news stories. It is typically a bustling and fast-paced environment.

For instance, “The newsroom was abuzz with activity as reporters prepared to cover the breaking news.”
A journalist might say, “I spent the entire day in the newsroom, researching and writing my article.”
A news producer might mention, “Our newsroom has state-of-the-art technology to help us deliver the news to our viewers.”

23. Presser

A presser is a shortened term for a press conference. It refers to a formal meeting or event where a person or organization makes an announcement or answers questions from journalists.

For example, “The president held a presser to address the recent economic developments.”
A reporter might say, “I attended a presser today where the CEO revealed the company’s future plans.”
A news anchor might mention, “Stay tuned for updates on the presser happening at the White House.”

24. The latest

The phrase “the latest” refers to the most recent news or information on a particular topic. It implies that the information is up-to-date and fresh.

For instance, “Here’s the latest on the ongoing investigation into the corruption scandal.”
A news anchor might say, “We have the latest details on the hurricane making its way towards the coast.”
A journalist might mention, “In my article, I provide the latest updates on the local election.”

25. Media frenzy

A media frenzy refers to a situation where the media becomes intensely interested in a particular event or topic, resulting in widespread coverage and attention.

For example, “The celebrity’s scandal created a media frenzy, with paparazzi following their every move.”
A news anchor might say, “The release of the highly anticipated movie caused a media frenzy, with fans lining up for hours.”
A journalist might mention, “The politician’s controversial statement sparked a media frenzy, with news outlets dissecting every word.”

26. Scandal

A scandal refers to an event or situation that is considered shocking, immoral, or disgraceful, often involving prominent individuals or institutions. It typically attracts a lot of public attention and media coverage.

For example, “The politician was involved in a major scandal when it was revealed that he had accepted bribes.”
In a discussion about celebrity scandals, someone might say, “The tabloids are always full of juicy scandals about famous people.”
A news article might report, “The scandal surrounding the company’s unethical practices has caused a public outcry.”

27. News feed

A news feed is a continuously updating stream of news articles, blog posts, social media posts, and other online content. It is often personalized based on the user’s interests and preferences.

For instance, “I get all my news from my social media news feed.”
A person might say, “I scroll through my news feed every morning to catch up on the latest headlines.”
In a discussion about online news consumption, someone might ask, “How do you curate your news feed to get the most relevant content?”

28. News junkie

A news junkie is someone who is obsessed with consuming news and staying up-to-date with current events. They are often avid readers, watchers, or listeners of news media.

For example, “My dad is a total news junkie. He reads multiple newspapers every day.”
A person might say, “I can’t start my day without checking the news. I’m a total news junkie.”
In a conversation about news addiction, someone might admit, “I know I’m a news junkie, but I just can’t help it. I need to know what’s happening in the world.”