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

Even when dining on the patio, the cuisine is exceptional, which comes as no surprise since Seabourn is a member of the famous culinary Chaîne des Rôtisseurs association. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Feb. 2026

The service is exceptional, and the food is delicious, especially the fluffy, build-your-own omelet. —Usa Today Network, USA Today, 11 Feb. 2026

An exceptional culinary experience likewise extends to the beauty of the cutlery, crystal, and fine china set the meal is served with, ideally in a space likewise suited to the elegance of such a tablescape. —Laurie Brookins, Travel + Leisure, 10 Feb. 2026

Offering 99 percent accuracy for five different drugs, this drug test has exceptional sensitivity for detecting opiates in urine. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 10 Feb. 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