What is meant by the term “Fourth Estate” in the context of US media?

Question

What   is   meant   by   the   term   “Fourth   Estate”   in   the   context   of   US   media?

Accepted Answer

A   media   role   that   acts   as   an   informal   check   on   the   three   branches   of   government

Answer

A   formal   part   of   the   US   political   system

Answer

A   private   lobbying   group   within   the   government

Answer

A   special   judicial   body   overseeing   elections

Crowdly