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

Brands can source globally, work with world-class co-packers and produce exceptional products without owning a single manufacturing facility. — Tom Wicky, Forbes.com, 20 Oct. 2026

Manzatto points to the Crown and Royal collections, whose shoes can take 12 weeks and more than 320 processes to complete, as proof that clients will pay for exceptional workmanship when its value is properly communicated. — Luke Leitch, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2026

The Festival will also be presenting several awards for exceptional work in the industry. — Libby Smith, CBS News, 20 Oct. 2026

Between these and all the various high-grade resistors and capacitors, the ZM3 is built to deliver exceptional sound. — New Atlas, 19 Oct. 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