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

• 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

The key factor here is whether the product meets our rigorous and definitive clean standard (detailed above) while offering exceptional and impressive results. —Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025

At the Reynolds Family Winery on September 27, 2025, guests are invited to an evening of exceptional wines, warm hospitality, and a few unforgettable harvest traditions. —Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

The southern resident population faces exceptional challenges that have intensified reproductive failures. —Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Sep. 2025

This list won’t simply alternate interminably between PSG and Barcelona’s best talents, but both sides were exceptional last season, and Brazilian winger Raphinha is another who warrants a lofty place here. —Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2025

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