# trial by media

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/trial-by-media
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The process by which media coverage affects a person's reputation by creating a widespread perception of guilt or innocence, often before, or after, a verdict in a court of law.

## Examples

- The celebrity faced a harsh trial by media after the news broke.
- Public opinion turned against the politician quickly due to a relentless trial by media before the trial even began.
- The accused individual struggled to maintain his reputation as the relentless trial by media effectively bypassed the formal judicial process and condemned him in the public eye.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.