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

• aberrant
• aberrated
• abnormal
• anomalous
• atypical
• especial
• exceeding
• extraordinaire
• extraordinary
• freak
• odd
• peculiar
• phenomenal
• preternatural
• rare
• singular
• uncommon
• uncustomary
• unique
• unusual
• unwonted

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

Scheduled for November 22nd in Hong Kong, this extraordinary event will showcase an array of exceptional timepieces, each a testament to the nation's rich watchmaking legacy and the unwavering passion of its connoisseurs. —Bhanu Chopra, Forbes, 28 Sep. 2024

In 2023, Dragonfly was named Best Cocktail Bar by the Free Press for its exceptional bar program with a specialty in innovative nonalcoholic beverages. —Lyndsay C. Green, Detroit Free Press, 28 Sep. 2024

This material provides its scratch-resistance durability yet lightweight feel to be an exceptional usage in watches. —Fairchild Studio, WWD, 28 Sep. 2024

This specific piece of cookware is crafted to have exceptional heat retention, locking in flavor and moisture when cooking proteins, veggies, and bread. —Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 28 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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