Zenger

American  

[zeng-er, -ger] / ˈzɛŋ ər, -gər /

noun

1. John Peter, 1697–1746, American journalist, printer, and publisher, born in Germany: his libel trial and eventual acquittal (1735) set a precedent for establishing freedom of the press in America.

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Example Sentences

We are approaching the 300th anniversary of one of the most important speech trials in American history, that of John Peter Zenger, editor of the New-York Weekly Journal.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 7, 2025

Since the trial of New York printer John Peter Zenger in 1735, freedom of the press has been a foundational element in the success of the American experiment.

From Washington Post • Apr. 19, 2023

For instance, in 1735, a journalist and printer named John Peter Zenger was charged with libel for publishing articles critical of New York’s colonial governor.

From Slate • Aug. 4, 2022

Zenger News’ David Martosko called the speech “the definition of ‘word salad.’”

From Washington Times • Jul. 6, 2022

I’d bargained with Mr. Zenger, the German butcher, and come home with gray mutton.

From "The Detective's Assistant" by Kate Hannigan