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

Many say these chiefs were doing exceptional work in the community to improve public safety, and believe their firings are a result of speaking out against the city manager. —Gabriela Vidal, CBS News, 9 Apr. 2026

While the stock trades at a modest premium to its industry, that premium reflects exceptional profitability, superior balance-sheet quality, and multiple avenues for long-term AI monetization. —Tony Zhang, CNBC, 8 Apr. 2026

The Deweys were the exceptional retirees who quickly became embedded in the community. —Stephen Trimble, Denver Post, 8 Apr. 2026

Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County host annual fundraising event honoring exceptional club teens and announcing BGCAA’s Youth of the Year. —Staff Report, Baltimore Sun, 8 Apr. 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