exceptional

adjective

ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce exceptional (audio)
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 noun
exceptionalness noun

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 Norquist, just a freshman, was exceptional in the circle. Joseph Dycus, The Mercury News, 23 Mar. 2024 The studio didn’t share any details regarding layout or amenities but acknowledges that comfort is paramount for a truly exceptional yachting experience. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 20 Mar. 2024 Graydon Herriott Being alone in this Jurassic Park wilderness is an exceptional and eerie experience. Catherine Fairweather, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Mar. 2024 However, coming to terms with the mental side of the game, learning the X’s and O’s and memorizing plays are just as, if not more important than being an exceptional athlete. Sam Joseph and, CNN, 20 Mar. 2024 One of Robert’s standout qualities is his exceptional vocal ability. Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 17 Mar. 2024 Greg is an exceptional employee and a great asset to the PFD in general. The Arizona Republic, 14 Mar. 2024 The latest group of Legacy Award recipients have been chosen by an independent judging panel, chaired by Baroness Doreen Lawrence, and were selected from a pool of exceptional individuals already recognized for their impact on society with The Diana Award in 2022 or 2023. Simon Perry, Peoplemag, 14 Mar. 2024 This flavor is exceptional as the mackerel is soaked in olive oil and spices, and the capers give it a delicious bite. Grace McCarty, SELF, 13 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'exceptional.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of exceptional was in 1787

Dictionary Entries Near exceptional

Cite this Entry

“Exceptional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exceptional. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

exceptional

adjective
ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-shnəl How to pronounce exceptional (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
1
: forming an exception : being unusual
an exceptional amount of rain
2
: better than average : superior
an exceptional student in math
exceptionally
adverb
exceptionalness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on exceptional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!