exceptional

adjective

ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce exceptional (audio)
Synonyms of exceptional
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 How to pronounce exceptional (audio)
noun
exceptionalness noun

Synonyms of exceptional

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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
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.
Bringing home a dedicated Bose television soundbar equipped with angled spatial drivers, dialogue-boosting algorithms, and expandable bass ports for under $200 is an exceptional value, making this the ideal window to upgrade your movie nights. — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 27 Aug. 2026 His exceptional talent, determination, and grit will leave a lasting legacy at NASA. — Mike Wall, Space.com, 27 Aug. 2026 In a deficient area, the exception is exposed, and to last, the exception must be exceptional somewhere else. — Zach Berman, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 Their records as Trio are legend, the kind of work that proves that, sometimes, three really excellent things can combine to make something even more exceptional. — Marah Eakin, Vulture, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for exceptional

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of exceptional was in 1787

Rhymes for exceptional

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Browse Nearby Words

exceptionable
exceptional
exceptionalism
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Exceptional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exceptional. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

exceptional

adjective
ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-shnəl How to pronounce exceptional (audio)
-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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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