| Document and Entity Information | Jun. 24, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | MEREDITH CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000065011 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jun. 24, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | IA |
| Entity File Number | 1-5128 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 42-0410230 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1716 Locust Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Des Moines |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 50309-3023 |
| City Area Code | (515) |
| Local Phone Number | 284-3000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $1 |
| Trading Symbol | MDP |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
