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

Finding a dynamic box-to-box midfielder with exceptional passing qualities and the defensive nous to offer a greater shield of protection to the back line is vital, and the safest shortlist would be to include players who already have Premier League experience. —Gregg Evans, New York Times, 13 May 2026

This may seem especially strange given birds’ exceptional vision. —Yasemin Saplakoglu, Quanta Magazine, 13 May 2026

Drought conditions in Georgia have worsened since the project was announced, and today, the whole state is experiencing severe to exceptional drought, with destructive wildfires burning in the southern part of Georgia. —Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 13 May 2026

Parts of Union, Cabarrus and east Mecklenburg are in the worst category, exceptional drought. —Diamond Vences, Charlotte Observer, 12 May 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