anchorperson: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, professional journalistic contexts. Slightly formal or dated in everyday use, where 'newsreader' or 'presenter' is more common.
Quick answer
What does “anchorperson” mean?
A person who presents a live news broadcast, acting as the central host, coordinating reports and interviews.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who presents a live news broadcast, acting as the central host, coordinating reports and interviews.
The principal presenter or host of a live television or radio programme, especially news, who holds the broadcast together and provides narrative continuity. Can also refer to a central, stabilizing figure in a team or group.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, 'newsreader' is a very common, everyday synonym. In the US, 'anchor' is the dominant, most frequently used term. 'Anchorperson' is formal in both variants but feels more institutional.
Connotations
In the US, 'anchor' carries significant prestige and star power. In the UK, the term can sound somewhat corporate or overly formal, with 'newsreader' or 'presenter' having a slightly more neutral, technical connotation.
Frequency
Much more frequent in American English. In British English, 'newsreader', 'presenter', or simply 'anchor' are more common in spoken language.
Grammar
How to Use “anchorperson” in a Sentence
The anchorperson introduced the report.She works as the anchorperson for the flagship news programme.The programme was hosted by a well-known anchorperson.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “anchorperson” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She will anchor the election coverage tonight.
- He has anchored the News at Ten for a decade.
American English
- She will anchor the election coverage tonight.
- He has anchored the Nightly News for a decade.
adjective
British English
- She has an anchorperson role on the programme.
- The anchorperson position is highly sought after.
American English
- She has an anchor role on the broadcast.
- The anchor position is highly sought after.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in media industry reports, contracts, and job descriptions (e.g., 'The network is seeking a new prime-time anchorperson.').
Academic
Used in media studies, sociology, and gender studies discussing role terminology and representation.
Everyday
Less common in casual conversation; more likely in discussions about TV or media careers.
Technical
Standard term in broadcasting, journalism, and media production for the central presenting role in a news programme.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “anchorperson”
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “anchorperson”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “anchorperson”
- Using 'anchorperson' for a game show host. Confusing it with 'reporter'. Plural: 'anchorpersons' is correct but rare; 'anchors' is more natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Very similar, but 'anchorperson' often implies a greater editorial role, coordinating reports and interviews, while 'newsreader' can imply primarily reading from a script. In practice, they are often used interchangeably, especially in British English.
Yes, 'anchor' is the most common and natural short form in both American and British English, especially in spoken language and informal writing.
Yes, it was coined specifically as a gender-neutral alternative to 'anchorman' and 'anchorwoman'. However, 'anchor' is now widely accepted as equally neutral and is more concise.
Yes, though it is more strongly associated with television. For radio, 'presenter' or 'host' is more typical, but 'anchorperson' can be used for major news broadcasts.
A person who presents a live news broadcast, acting as the central host, coordinating reports and interviews.
Anchorperson is usually formal, professional journalistic contexts. slightly formal or dated in everyday use, where 'newsreader' or 'presenter' is more common. in register.
Anchorperson: in British English it is pronounced /ˈæŋ.kəˌpɜː.sən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈæŋ.kɚˌpɝː.sən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To anchor the news”
- “The face of the news”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a ship's ANCHOR holding it steady. An ANCHORPERSON holds the news broadcast steady, providing stability and a central point.
Conceptual Metaphor
STABILITY IS A PHYSICAL ANCHOR / A PROGRAMME IS A STRUCTURE (with a central pillar).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'anchorperson' LEAST appropriate?