Lede
01 Definition
Lede meaning: The opening sentence or paragraph of an article that delivers its most important point.
The lede is the beginning of a news story or article, usually the first sentence or paragraph. It carries the most important information or the angle that makes the piece worth reading. 'Burying the lede' means hiding the key point too far down.
Also called
Why it matters
How Lede fits the work
A clear lede tells readers fast why the piece matters, which respects their time and helps them decide to keep reading in a crowded feed.
In context
Instead of opening with history, the reporter leads with the lede: 'The city council voted last night to ban gas leaf blowers.'
Practical note
Do not bury the lede under background or setup. Lead with the news or the payoff, then add context afterward for readers who want it.