close

About

Buzzwords are frequently used in news media. These are words that do not typically occur in everyday speech, but are common among newscasters, talking heads, and pundits on cable news.

These ‘news words’ are accepted by audiences for their implied meaning. But often loaded words are misused or used out of context. The actual definitions can be different than what is implied.

Newswordy is a growing collection of these words, updated every weekday. Along with each word is a definition, a quote with its use (or misuse) in the media, and a news and Twitter feed on the subject.

Designed and curated by Josh Smith + oak. Powered by Siteleaf.

Newswordy

Blackout.

1. A period when all lights must be turned out or covered to prevent them being seen by the enemy during an air raid; 2. Dark curtains put up in windows to cover lights during an air raid; 3. A failure of electrical power supply; 4. A moment in the theater when the lights on stage are suddenly turned off; 5. A suppression of information, esp. one imposed on the media by government; 6. A period during which a particular activity is prohibited; 7. A temporary loss of consciousness.

Wikipedia will black out the English language version of its website Wednesday to protest anti-piracy legislation under consideration in Congress, the foundation behind the popular community-based online encyclopedia said in a statement Monday night…Wikipedia is also requesting that readers contact members of Congress about the bill during the blackout.

Sarah Skidmore, The Associated Press