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
as in excellent
of the very best kind
this ice cream is sensational
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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
Best Ways to Enjoy As noted, the flesh of dragon fruit is sensational as is—but consider that your jumping-off point.
—
Randi Gollin,
Martha Stewart,
21 June 2026
Ibrahimović is known for being a hard guy to impress, but after seeing the USMNT up close for two matches on the world's biggest stage, the sensational Swedish striker is ready to believe.
—
Austin Perry Outkick,
FOXNews.com,
20 June 2026
On this day in 1893, one of the most sensational murder trials in American history came to a shocking conclusion when a Massachusetts jury acquitted Lizzie Borden of murder—after just over an hour of deliberation.
—
Sophia Zhang,
Encyclopedia Britannica,
16 June 2026
Combs’ four-year, two-month sentence came as a second shock to a captive courtroom audience after the split verdict was read following his sensational eight-week trial.
—
Kevin Dolak,
HollywoodReporter,
16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for sensational
Randi Gollin,
Martha Stewart,
21 June 2026
Ibrahimović is known for being a hard guy to impress, but after seeing the USMNT up close for two matches on the world's biggest stage, the sensational Swedish striker is ready to believe.
—
Austin Perry Outkick,
FOXNews.com,
20 June 2026
On this day in 1893, one of the most sensational murder trials in American history came to a shocking conclusion when a Massachusetts jury acquitted Lizzie Borden of murder—after just over an hour of deliberation.
—
Sophia Zhang,
Encyclopedia Britannica,
16 June 2026
Combs’ four-year, two-month sentence came as a second shock to a captive courtroom audience after the split verdict was read following his sensational eight-week trial.
—
Kevin Dolak,
HollywoodReporter,
16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for sensational
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensational
Adjective
-
It is filled with a plump and juicy cod fish and drenched with Mexican crema, pico de gallo and cabbage.
-
Craving a sweet juicy Georgia peach grown on a farm, but the choices in some stores might be still hard as a rock?
Adjective
-
This ancient developmental program, deeply conserved, can also be radically repurposed, as seen in the star-nosed mole's sensory tentacles.
-
Arthur also pulled together five quieter, more sensory-friendly options in the Charlotte area — including Birkdale Village’s annual midday block party and bike parade, where the Huntersville Fire Department traditionally splashes the crowd before the festivities.
Adjective
-
Turkey evened it in the 10th minute with an excellent two-man game from Baris Alper Yilmaz and Güler, the 21-year-old Real Madrid rising star.
-
The nearby town of Dolores makes an excellent home base.
Adjective
-
Bringing new teenage characters into the Factory, with Kit Connor already announced as lead voice cast, the film appears to be a fast-paced, thrilling and colorful adventure for young audiences, and got enthusiastic feedback from Annecy’s crowds.
-
Lasichanh sported colorful sneakers for her footwear, carried a small Louis Vuitton bag and wore delicate jewelry pieces to complete her casually bent attire.
Adjective
-
Cutouts were a major motif for the dress, and were also featured at the hips for a symmetrical bent to the sensual design.
-
Warm and sensual, but with a somewhat fresh, floral drydown.
Adjective
-
So many wonderful dinners with friends and nights out on the town.
-
Soccer – football in much of the world – has a long and wonderful tradition of singing, whether that be in praise of their favorite players, mocking opponents (sometimes, brutally so) or simply urging their team forward.
Adjective
-
There was more screaming and yelling for people who wanted to get a ventilator available in their home.
Adjective
-
At the Canadian Pavilion, Abbas Akhavan created a sensorial environment centered on fragility, displacement, breath, and survival.
-
What’s more, the product delivers a luxe sensorial experience and a bit of an afterglow.
Cite this Entry
“Sensational.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensational. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
