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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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 Even before, his 2024 production showed a sharp decline from his sensational 2022-23. Miami Herald, 16 Feb. 2026 Events include a home and garden tour, parade, artisan craft fair, and a reenactment of the most sensational murder trial to ever occur in Jefferson. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 16 Feb. 2026 Slafkovský had two goals and an assist in a virtuoso performance, and Iowa Wild goaltender Samuel Hlavaj was sensational, stopping 39 of 40 shots, including an 18-save first period that gave his team belief that the improbable was possible. Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 11 Feb. 2026 After their sensational season, the Warriors (12-2-1) have now earned the top seed in Division 1 and will host the Fairmont Prep Huskies (7-6-2). Justin Vigil Zuniga, Daily News, 8 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensational
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensational
Adjective
  • Her juicy Rare Beauty lip gloss (a top brand loved by Sephora teens) prompted a statement from Selena Gomez.
    Madeline Hirsch, InStyle, 20 Feb. 2026
  • In the other, millions of Americans are following along via live streaming on Peacock, and talking about juicy off-ice gossip nearly as much as the medal events themselves.
    Scott Soshnick, Sportico.com, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Basic, uniform lighting can make even the best TV binges and movie nights feel a bit flat, video games less sensory-rich, and parties low-energy.
    Brittany Anas, Entertainment Weekly, 20 Feb. 2026
  • The sensory peak of the labyrinth is dedicated to the film’s central car crash, a sequence originally captured in a single, highly dangerous take using nine cameras.
    Robert Lang, Deadline, 20 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • There’s also bubbles (the champagne by the glass selection is excellent) and raclette cart service.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2026
  • The regular season is different from the playoffs, but surely Detroit is champing at the bit to get a rematch of last year’s excellent first-round matchup with the Knicks this postseason.
    James L. Edwards III, New York Times, 20 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Food is colorful, local, and seasonal, using Hokkaido ingredients with a French edge, helmed by chef Tatsuya Ozeki.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Feb. 2026
  • Try these colorful, mini versions for a fun appetizer.
    Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 25 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Writer-director Nia DaCosta makes one of 19th-century playwright Henrik Ibsen's most beloved plays, Hedda Gabler, fully urgent and relevant for a modern audience with this witty, sensual drama.
    Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 22 Feb. 2026
  • The sensual rhythm carries emotional lyrics about ending a relationship and not being able to let go.
    Natalia Cano, Billboard, 20 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Service at the bars and restaurants on the ship was wonderful, too—attentive but never hovering.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Feb. 2026
  • Justin Trudeau – like him or don’t like him – Canadians are wonderful people.
    Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 24 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

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Cite this Entry

“Sensational.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensational. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

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