Muckrake: meaning, definitions and examples

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muckrake

 

[ ˈmʌk.reɪk ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

journalism term

To muckrake means to search for and expose misconduct or corruption, particularly in politics or business. The term is often used in the context of investigative journalism where reporters uncover scandals and unethical practices.

Synonyms

expose, investigate, unearth

Examples of usage

  • The journalists muckraked the local government to reveal the corruption.
  • Muckraking has become a vital part of maintaining democracy.
  • The book chronicles how muckraking helped expose corporate wrongdoings.
Context #2 | Noun

journalism practice

Muckrake refers to the act or practice of searching for and publicly exposing issues, especially in relation to politics and business. This practice is often defended as essential for transparency and accountability.

Synonyms

expose, investigative journalism, whistleblowing

Examples of usage

  • Muckrake in journalism has played a crucial role in reforming policies.
  • The muckrake of the early 20th century led to significant regulatory changes.
  • Many journalists take pride in their muckrake endeavors.

Translations

Translations of the word "muckrake" in other languages:

🇵🇹 expor a verdade

🇮🇳 खबरों की छानबीन करना

🇩🇪 aufdecken

🇮🇩 menggali informasi

🇺🇦 викривати

🇵🇱 ujawniać

🇯🇵 暴露する

🇫🇷 révéler

🇪🇸 exponer

🇹🇷 açığa çıkarmak

🇰🇷 폭로하다

🇸🇦 كشف

🇨🇿 odhalit

🇸🇰 odhaliť

🇨🇳 揭露

🇸🇮 razkriti

🇮🇸 afhjúpa

🇰🇿 ашу

🇬🇪 გამოცხადება

🇦🇿 açmaq

🇲🇽 destapar

Etymology

The term 'muckrake' originated from the late 19th century, derived from the character of 'Muckraker' in John Bunyan's 'Pilgrim's Progress'. In the story, a muckraker is someone so focused on the dirt and muck around him that he fails to see the higher forms of existence. In the early 20th century, during the Progressive Era in the United States, the term was repurposed to describe journalists who endeavored to expose corruption and injustices in society and politics. The muckrakers were influential in driving reforms and highlighting the need for social change by revealing the wrongdoing of powerful figures and institutions. Their efforts often led to significant developments in public policy and legislation aimed at improving social conditions.