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Dictionaryheadline
noun / verb

headline

A title presenting the main point of a news story, or to feature prominently.

The headline sums up the main point of the news story.

Etymology
headEnglishtop
+lineEnglishrow of writing

The compound names the prominent line at the head of a news item. Its top position and emphasis identify the story and summarize its central point.

More examples

  • She reads the headlines before leaving for work.
  • The newspaper headlines the mayor's resignation on its front page.
  • A local jazz singer headlines the festival this year.

Forms

headline · headlines · headlined · headlining

headliner noun — Performer given top billing at an event.

Similar words

title
Names a work or section, not necessarily a news story.
heading
Introduces a section rather than summarizing a news story.
feature
Gives someone or something prominence without necessarily giving top billing.