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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 University of Miami basketball fans who stayed up for Wednesday’s late-night game against Stanford were treated to a thriller, as the Hurricanes wore down sensational freshman guard Ebuka Okorie and rallied late to beat the Cardinal 79-70 at the Watsco Center. Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 29 Jan. 2026 Noomi Rapace is sensational as an astronaut who returns to Earth after an accident and things just aren't quite right. New Atlas, 28 Jan. 2026 And then there was CMAT, the Irish singer who has already become a European sensation, exulting in a sensational reception for her mainstage set at GJWW, which some attendees went online to cite as the most thrilling full-length performance of the weekend. Chris Willman, Variety, 27 Jan. 2026 Adding another title to Rupert Murdoch ‘s media empire, the California Post will draw from and build on the venerable New York paper’s national coverage, which is known for its relentless and skewering approach to reporting and its facility with sensational or racy subject matter. Christopher Weber, Chicago Tribune, 26 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensational
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensational
Adjective
  • Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
    Gabrielle Rockson, PEOPLE, 30 Jan. 2026
  • Or maybe fur looks too much like the original animal for their comfort — unlike leather, or a juicy burger that doesn’t resemble anything with four legs.
    Skye Goode, Outdoor Life, 29 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Your brain on dance In humans, that mix between sensory gathering, pattern recognition, prediction and motion involves regions all across the brain.
    Luis Melecio-Zambrano, Mercury News, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Rho-alpha builds on this foundation but extends the sensory input to include touch.
    Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Six solid to excellent major leaguers, two average ones and 11 busts.
    Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Use Dryer Balls to Keep Sheets Separated Dryer balls are an excellent tool for combating tangled sheets.
    Anyssa Roberts, The Spruce, 5 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Soon, the beams should form a colorful, geometric structure.
    Angela Palermo, Idaho Statesman, 4 Feb. 2026
  • The first modern Mardi Gras took place in New Orleans in 1827 when a group of students danced through the streets in colorful costumes, and the first parade took place a decade later.
    Alex Driggars, Austin American Statesman, 4 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Angela is known for her confident, no-nonsense attitude and her sensual style, often seen on-screen in bikinis, or other tight, revealing and provocative outfits.
    Lori A Bashian, FOXNews.com, 1 Feb. 2026
  • The experimental romantic comedy mixes sensual 16mm shots with intimate dialogue.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 31 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Second, that Carrick was genuinely a player of wonderful ability, who was seen as a tremendous talent from a young age.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 3 Feb. 2026
  • Giving family members an opportunity to enjoy the cruise at their own pace can go a long way to creating a trip filled with wonderful memories, Denison says.
    Stacey Lastoe, Southern Living, 3 Feb. 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
  • Each one is a loving take on a classic treat and a delicious testament to maximalist sensorial delight.
    Jesse Szewczyk, Bon Appetit Magazine, 28 Jan. 2026
  • This appetite for innovative and highly sensorial culinary experiences translates naturally to mixology, so when La Factoría paired it with the feel of Old San Juan’s already thriving nightlife scene, the bar caught on quickly.
    Carley Rojas Ávila, Forbes.com, 17 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sensational.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensational. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on sensational

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!