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

Disney insiders say this puts the threequel in the driver’s seat, noting additionally that PostTrak exit scores are an exceptional 4 out 5. —Pamela McClintock, HollywoodReporter, 21 Dec. 2025

Conservatives believe that America is exceptional, that our American Experiment stands alone as a beacon of hope and self-governance throughout the globe. —Matt Fleming, Oc Register, 21 Dec. 2025

Guests enjoy an exceptional culinary, wine, and craft coffee experience beneath the skylight of the central covered courtyard. —Lindsey Tramuta, Travel + Leisure, 19 Dec. 2025

Near-immediate offers are expected rather than exceptional. —Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 19 Dec. 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