hearst
Proper noun A surname, most famously that of William Randolph Hearst, a prominent and influential American newspaper publisher, businessman, and politician. The name is strongly associated with the development of sensationalist journalism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The word "Hearst" is used primarily as a proper noun to refer to the historical figure, William Randolph Hearst, or to the media empire and business interests he founded. * The Hearst newspapers were known for their bold style. * She studied the career of William Randolph Hearst. * The Hearst Corporation still owns many publications.
- Hearstian (adjective): Pertaining to or characteristic of William Randolph Hearst or his methods, especially regarding journalism, wealth, or grand ambition.
- The politician's Hearstian campaign used the media to shape public opinion dramatically.
- The term can be used metonymically to refer to the practices of yellow journalism or sensationalist media.
- The article's approach was pure Hearst, prioritizing scandal over facts.
- Hearst Castle: The lavish estate built by William Randolph Hearst in San Simeon, California, now a historical landmark and museum.
- The Hearst Corporation: The multinational mass media and business information conglomerate founded by William Randolph Hearst.
- Publisher (in the specific context of newspaper ownership)
- Media magnate / Press baron (describing his type of power and influence)
While "Hearst" is a surname, its primary lexical meaning in common reference is inextricably linked to the specific individual, William Randolph Hearst. It evokes concepts of immense wealth, media power, sensationalist "yellow" journalism, political influence, and extravagant lifestyle. It is not used as a common noun.
- United States newspaper publisher whose introduction of large headlines and sensational reporting changed American journalism (1863-1951)