exceptional

adjective

ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nəl 

1

: forming an exception : rare

an exceptional number of rainy days

2

: better than average : superior

exceptional skill

3

: deviating from the norm: such as

a

: having above or below average intelligence

b

: physically disabled

exceptionality

ik-ˌsep-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

exceptionalness noun

Synonyms of exceptional

• extraordinary
• unusual
• unique
• outstanding
• rare
• abnormal
• uncommon
• remarkable

Examples of exceptional in a Sentence

We're bending the rules for this exceptional situation.

an exceptional student in math

The seafood dishes at this restaurant are exceptional.

a separate school for exceptional children

Recent Examples on the Web

In simple terms, this means a place must be significant beyond its own country, and its cultural or natural importance must be exceptional enough to matter to people around the world, including future generations. — Karina Acharya, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Nov. 2026

Alongside the partnership, the company is increasing its Security Bug Bounty rewards, with exceptional findings eligible for up to $172,000, including bonuses. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 3 Nov. 2026

Rhys Jones, Analysis Output Manager at aviation risk advisory firm Osprey Flight Solutions, ​said that seven confirmed bomb threats in a single day impacting flights was exceptional. — Reuters, CNN Money, 3 Nov. 2026

The 2026 western fire season The 2026 wildfire season began with historically low mountain snowpack, early snowmelt and exceptional warmth across much of the West. — Virginia Iglesias, The Conversation, 3 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for exceptional

• unexceptional

Kids Definition

exceptional

adjective

ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

1

: forming an exception : being unusual

an exceptional amount of rain

2

: better than average : superior

an exceptional student in math

exceptionally

-ē

adverb

exceptionalness noun