headline - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
headline Word Meanings
- a title of a newspaper article
- the main point of a story
- a brief summary or description
headline Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
headline Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhɛdlaɪn/
US
/ˈhɛdlaɪn/
headline Word Etymology
head + line = a line at the head. Latin 'caput' for head and Old French 'ligne' for line. Imagine a bold title at the top of a newspaper page, catching attention like a beacon.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I move my eyes along the page, letting the headline tug at my focus. I push aside other lines and shift my attention to the bold line at the top. The moment the headline lands, I feel a quick change, like a door shifting open to the story. That feeling stays as I skim the rest, using the headline as a map for what to read first.
Real Context
A headline is the bold, attention-grabbing label at the top of a newspaper, magazine, or online article. It should convey the article's main point or hook readers into the story. In journalism, headlines often use strong verbs, puns, or wordplay to stand out, while the body text explains the details. In everyday speech, people might refer to 'the headline' of a news story as shorthand for the most important point or for the article overall. You can also use headline as a verb informally (to headline an event), though the common noun usage is more frequent.
Usage Reminders
- Use headline for the top, bold title of a news article.
- Don't use it for book or movie titles.
- Headlines are usually shorter than the article.
- They often use strong verbs and present tense.
- Headlines summarize the main point but do not replace the article body.
Common Misconceptions
- Headline is the same as the article itself.
- A headline can replace the entire article.
- Headlines always use fancy language.
- All headlines must be about breaking news.
- Headline and title are interchangeable in every context.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Read real headlines from trusted outlets daily.
- Note the tense and verbs used (present simple often).
- Differentiate between headline and title in examples.
- Practice rewriting a paragraph into a punchy headline.
- Learn common headline patterns (X did Y, Noun + Verb).
- Avoid translating literally; focus on core meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'headline'?
A.Main title of a newspaper article
B.Final paragraph of a story
C.Beginning of a book
D.Side note in a magazine
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'headline' typically used in a sentence?
A.She read the headline of the article
B.He ignored the headline of the newspaper
C.The headline was small and hard to read
D.The headline included a typo
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'headline'?
A.Caption
B.Subtitle
C.Quote
D.Title
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'headline'?
A.Footnote
B.Bottom line
C.Summary
D.Introduction
Step 5: Mastery
In what context might you see the word 'headline'?
A.On a shopping list
B.On a billboard
C.On the front page of a newspaper
D.On a recipe card
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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