sensational

adjective

sen·​sa·​tion·​al sen-ˈsā-shnəl 

-shə-nᵊl

1

: of or relating to sensation or the senses

2

: arousing or tending to arouse (as by lurid details) a quick, intense, and usually superficial interest, curiosity, or emotional reaction

sensational tabloid news

3

: exceedingly or unexpectedly excellent or great

a sensational talent

sensationally adverb

Synonyms

• catchpenny
• gee-whiz
• lurid
• screaming
• sensationalist
• sensationalistic

Examples of sensational in a Sentence

She looked sensational in her new dress.

the sensational news story caused a stir, but after a few days everyone forgot about it

Recent Examples on the Web

Prosecutors told the judge that New Mexico is not seeking to hold Meta accountable for its content but rather its role in pushing out that content through complex algorithms that proliferate material that can be sensational, addictive and harmful. —Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 31 May 2024

How to build the most sensational, inspirational, celebrational Muppet Show episode Your company, Imagine, has worked with Frank Oz before. —Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 30 May 2024

The cliffside property provides sensational views of both the ocean and Skaros Rock. —Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 28 May 2024

The Menendez case has produced sensational and salacious details — ranging from stacks of cash to gold bars found in the Senator’s residence — attracting a massive media spotlight. —Aaron Coy Moulton / Made By History, TIME, 28 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sensational

adjective

sen·​sa·​tion·​al sen-ˈsā-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl,

sən-

1

: of or relating to sensation or the senses

2

: arousing a strong and usually shallow interest or emotional reaction

sensational news

3

: exceedingly or unexpectedly excellent or great

a sensational diving catch

sensationally

-ē

adverb