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

Her burden is to produce exceptional wine to finance Beaune’s hospital, so the pressure is intense. — George Nelson For Artnews, Robb Report, 9 July 2026

Sandy Powell has long been an inspiration to costume designers around the world, and her involvement as Ambassador brings an exceptional level of creative insight and industry leadership to the programme. — Alex Ritman, Variety, 9 July 2026

Read More TopicsWeddings Vogue Weddings An all-access invitation to the exceptional and inspirational, plus planning tips and advice. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 9 July 2026

Her burden is to produce exceptional wine to finance Beaune’s hospital, so the pressure is intense. — George Nelson, ARTnews.com, 8 July 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