What does newshound mean?
A newshound is a journalist or reporter who vigorously pursues news, particularly stories that are exclusive, dramatic, or sensational. The expression often carries a mildly critical or derogatory implication, portraying the person as relentless, opportunistic, or overly interested in gossip. It can nevertheless be used more playfully to describe an especially persistent reporter. The word combines the older sense of “news” with “hound,” an animal traditionally associated with following a scent and pursuing a quarry, creating an image of someone who hunts for information. The term is used in British and American English and is most often encountered in journalism, media commentary, and descriptions of aggressive celebrity or political reporting.
nounA journalist or reporter who aggressively seeks news, especially sensational or newsworthy stories. The term is often used disparagingly for reporters who pursue stories relentlessly.
- A journalist or reporter who aggressively pursues news, especially sensational or newsworthy stories.
"The newspaper's relentless newshound secured an exclusive interview with the retiring minister."
"The tabloid newshound was first to report the scandal."
"Celebrities have learned to expect calls from every ambitious newshound in town."
The standard plural is “newshounds.”
"Several newshounds crowded outside the courthouse."
A newshound does not wait for the story to arrive—it goes hunting for it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does newshound come from?
Newshound is a compound of “news” and “hound.” “News” was originally associated with new or noteworthy information, while “hound” contributes the sense of tracking and pursuing a quarry. The compound developed in the context of journalism to refer to a persistent reporter who hunts for stories, especially sensational ones. Its metaphorical use also extends beyond journalism to describe anyone persistently seeking information or gossip.
Related word forms
How newshound is actually used
The term is informal and commonly disparaging, suggesting aggressive or sensationalist reporting. It may also be used playfully when someone is being persistently nosy.
Easily confused with newshound
A newshound is a journalist who pursues news, whereas a hound is a hunting dog.