exceptionalism

noun

ex·​cep·​tion·​al·​ism ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nə-ˌli-zəm 

: the condition of being different from the norm

also : a theory expounding the exceptionalism especially of a nation or region

exceptionalist

ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nə-list 

adjective

Examples of exceptionalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But that exceptionalism stemmed from bold vision and an ability to accomplish big things. —Dan Goldman, New York Daily News, 30 Mar. 2025

However, financial markets are beginning to question whether this era of American exceptionalism is coming to an end. —Garth Friesen, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025

And the proximity between these worldviews matters, because many of us—including liberals—too easily accept the myths of American exceptionalism. —Sanjena Sathian, TIME, 11 Mar. 2025

But the market has largely taken care of this, puncturing all of the most popular premises entering 2025: U.S. exceptionalism, bearishness on bonds and a belief that the market could broaden in a smooth and painless way. —Michael Santoli, CNBC, 8 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for exceptionalism

• absolutism
• adventurism
• aestheticism
• africanism
• agnosticism
• alcoholism
• anabolism
• anachronism
• anglicanism
• antagonism
• arianism
• asceticism