spinternet

English

Etymology

Blend of spin +‎ Internet. The word was presumably coined by Evgeny Morozov in 2009.

Noun

spinternet

1. The Internet (and digital technologies) as used to influence public opinion while giving an impression of grassroots mobilisation.
   • 2011, Evgeny Morozov, The Net Delusion, Public Affairs, page 117:

     […] the Spinternet — a Web with little censorship, but lots of spin and propaganda.

   • March 29, 2009, Evgeny Morozov, "Propaganda.com" in New York Times

     In Iran, the Revolutionary Guards recently announced their ambition to build their own spinternet by launching 10,000 blogs for the Basij, a paramilitary force under the Guards.