exceptional

ex·cep·tion·al

adjective \ik-ˈsep-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\

Definition of EXCEPTIONAL

1

: forming an exception : rare <an exceptional number of rainy days>

2

: better than average : superior <exceptional skill>

3

: deviating from the norm: as

a : having above or below average intelligence

b : physically disabled

— ex·cep·tion·al·i·ty \-ˌsep-shə-ˈna-lə-tē\ noun

— ex·cep·tion·al·ness noun

Examples of EXCEPTIONAL

1. We're bending the rules for this exceptional situation.
2. an exceptional student in math
3. The seafood dishes at this restaurant are exceptional.
4. a separate school for exceptional children

First Known Use of EXCEPTIONAL

1787

Related to EXCEPTIONAL

Synonyms

aberrant, aberrated, abnormal, anomalous, atypical, especial, exceeding, extraordinaire, extraordinary, freak, odd, peculiar, phenomenal, preternatural, rare, singular, uncommon, uncustomary, unique, unusual, unwonted

Antonyms

common, customary, normal, ordinary, typical, unexceptional, unextraordinary, usual

Related Words

conspicuous, notable, noticeable, outstanding, prominent, remarkable, salient, striking; bizarre, deviant, eccentric, freakish, monstrous, oddball, outlandish, quaint, strange, weird; incomprehensible, inconceivable, incredible, unimaginable, unthinkable

Near Antonyms

everyday, familiar, frequent