exceptional

adjective

ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nəl 

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 

noun

exceptionalness noun

Synonyms

• aberrant
• aberrated
• abnormal
• anomalous
• atypical
• especial
• exceeding
• extraordinaire
• extraordinary
• freak
• odd
• peculiar
• phenomenal
• preternatural
• rare
• singular
• uncommon
• uncustomary
• unique
• unusual
• unwonted

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

Part of that is the exceptional goaltending from Anthony Stolarz (before his injury) and Joseph Woll. —Allan Mitchell, The Athletic, 8 Jan. 2025

Its standout features include a large, vibrant display, fast charging, and exceptional battery life. —Shubham Yewale, PCMAG, 8 Jan. 2025

On the palate, the wine exhibits exceptional intensity, texture, purity and a dull-bodied finish with velvety but noticeable tannins. —Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 8 Jan. 2025

The list spotlights the most exceptional achievements in film by Asian Pacific creatives over the past year. —Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 8 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

exceptional

adjective

ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-shnəl 

-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