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

The royal wave The theming on board is exceptional, with restaurants, bars, beauty parlours and activities, all dusted with Disney glitter. —Helen Wright, TheWeek, 11 Mar. 2026

Jessie Buckley did exceptional work in Hamnet. —Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 11 Mar. 2026

The Book Prizes recognize 61 exceptional works in 13 categories, including achievement in audiobook production, presented by Audible. —Los Angeles Times, 11 Mar. 2026

The industry is just now catching up to how exceptional milky formulas are—thanks in large part to their ability to nourish without the weight; attributing their popularity to a bigger shift towards consumers concerned with overall hair health and maintaining hydration. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 10 Mar. 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