exceptionalism

noun

ex·​cep·​tion·​al·​ism ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce exceptionalism (audio)
: the condition of being different from the norm
also : a theory expounding the exceptionalism especially of a nation or region
exceptionalist adjective

Examples of exceptionalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Does his exceptionalism get in the way of us understanding the 19th century and where the average person was at that time? Fiction Non Fiction, Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2025 American exceptionalism is a recurring theme that runs throughout Karp’s oeuvre. Jessica Mathews, Fortune, 16 Oct. 2025 Indeed, they are sold the allure of exceptionalism. Brendan Kuty, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 In this week’s Mini Philosophy interview, anthropologist Christine Webb argues that a lot of science research is shaped by human exceptionalism, reinforcing biases and anthropocentric assumptions. Jonny Thomson, Big Think, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for exceptionalism

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of exceptionalism was in 1929

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Cite this Entry

“Exceptionalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exceptionalism. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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