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

Above Average is billed as an irreverent look at celebrity culture, corporate power and society’s obsession with being exceptional. — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 27 Oct. 2026

Offensive line The group was exceptional in the run game and overall did a good job protecting Willis, who was sacked twice by a Jets defense that entered the game fifth in the league in sacks with 17. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 26 Oct. 2026

The extraordinary extent of Edward’s absorption in Nighthawks suggests that the painting was a product of exceptional, almost obsessive focus, with little of the typical delays or doubts plaguing its genesis. — Literary Hub, 26 Oct. 2026

For those planning a trip, the hotel scene is exceptional, but Airbnb rentals plant travelers in some of the most compelling locations. — Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 26 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