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

The wool and latex top layers provide truly exceptional temperature regulation, and the pillowy top provides a nice bit of softness. —Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 2 Nov. 2024

Nestled in the Carneros region a few miles south of bustling downtown Napa is Etude Wines, a producer of exceptional, award-winning Pinot Noirs. —Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 2 Nov. 2024

Carhartt jackets are known for their exceptional warmth that is perfect for bitter winters. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 2 Nov. 2024

The top few in the segment are all exceptional deals for safe transportation. —Marco Rubio, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024

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