Definition of sensationalnext
1
as in juicy
arousing a strong and usually superficial interest or emotional reaction the sensational news story caused a stir, but after a few days everyone forgot about it

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in sensory
of or relating to physical sensation or the senses sensational hallucinations

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

3

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sensational Smith had a season-low four catches for 93 yards, but the sensational wide receiver made the most of his chances. — ABC News, 10 Oct. 2026 Craig was sensational against Grambling State and Arkansas State, producing a total passing EPA of 32 on his dropbacks. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Oct. 2026 Keaton Wagler, whose sensational freshman season propelled Illinois to its first Final Four in 21 years, is preparing for the NBA season with the Los Angeles Clippers. — Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026 Championship leader Kimi Antonelli completed the podium, with another sensational drive taking him to P2. — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 8 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensational
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensational
Adjective
  • Baugh’s decision to sign with Georgia’s fiercest rival adds a juicy subplot to Saturday’s showdown, even within a family featuring some Bulldogs’ backers.
    — Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Oct. 2026
  • The crispy coating had that perfect, satisfying crunch, giving way to juicy meat packed with salt and seasoning without being overly greasy.
    — Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 26 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Possible applications include virtual social gatherings, online shopping, and healthcare research involving sensory perception or loss.
    — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Studies in neuroscience have proven that the brain subconsciously processes millions of bits of sensory information every second, and at a much faster rate than the conscious mind.
    — Jesse Granger, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • His 28-yard touchdown reception from Sam Darnold late in the second quarter beat Delane, who had excellent position.
    — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 2026
  • The biggest key for the Brewers in this game is to see if their bullpen can keep their excellent pitching alive.
    — OutKick, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The rooms, with colorful textiles, ceramics from Oaxaca’s La Chicharra studio, whitewashed walls offset with dark sapodilla wood floors, are cool and welcoming after a day in the bright sun.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2026
  • Polish artist and designer Sonia Górecka often turns to folklore for her ethereal textile creations, mixing and matching traditional pagan figures and motifs on sheer curtains and colorful hanging jacquard weavings.
    — Francesca Perry, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The most sensual scene in the movie is actually a dance number at a public gathering where the two characters slowly sway and caress each other, much to the horror and confusion of the other townsfolk.
    — Whitney Friedlander, Los Angeles Times, 26 Oct. 2026
  • For 1937, which is dominated by shades of green, blue, khaki, and sand, Cobos looked to Claire Denis’s Beau Travail (1999), a sensual psychological drama about French Foreign Legionnaires in Djibouti.
    — Elaina Patton, Vogue, 25 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • An itinerary of hikes, wine tastings, and a sunset cruise offering incredible views of the Santa Barbara coastline is a wonderful way to end the day, while a cozy house with a garden will add to everyone’s enjoyment.
    — Vogue, Vogue, 27 Oct. 2026
  • The improbable evening turned into a moving tribute to both Capra himself and his tale of the suicidal banker George Bailey, who comes to realize that his life has indeed been wonderful.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • There was more screaming and yelling for people who wanted to get a ventilator available in their home.
    — Chris Lee, Vulture, 16 Feb. 2021
Adjective
  • With a subtle and spa-like floral scent and a soothing, lightweight gel consistency, the cream also lends itself to a pleasantly sensorial application experience.
    — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2026
  • Perfumers working with Maison Crivelli are sent a mood board, including photos, videos, oral descriptions of people met, music heard and food tasted — varied sensorial components that describe an adventure Thibaud Crivelli has had.
    — Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sensational.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensational. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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