exceptional
adjective
ex·cep·tion·al
ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nəl 
2
: better than average : superior
exceptional skill
3
: deviating from the norm: such as
a
: having above or below average intelligence
b
: physically disabled
exceptionalness
noun
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
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Technical skills and strategic thinking are vital, but humility is one of the most defining traits of exceptional leaders.
—
Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025
The left-back is a constant threat, capable of turning defence into attack through lightning pace and exceptional dribbling.
—Julia Ranney, The Athletic, 20 Mar. 2025
When William finally appears in person late in the game, the faceoff between him and Eddie is worth the wait if only just to see these two exceptional actors go at it.
—Pete Hammond, Deadline, 20 Mar. 2025
The whimsical, but thoughtful dining experiences, from sushi in a bird’s nest tower to pizza at the outdoor cinema, make for exceptional meals.
—Jen Murphy, Travel + Leisure, 19 Mar. 2025
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Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025
The left-back is a constant threat, capable of turning defence into attack through lightning pace and exceptional dribbling.
—Julia Ranney, The Athletic, 20 Mar. 2025
When William finally appears in person late in the game, the faceoff between him and Eddie is worth the wait if only just to see these two exceptional actors go at it.
—Pete Hammond, Deadline, 20 Mar. 2025
The whimsical, but thoughtful dining experiences, from sushi in a bird’s nest tower to pizza at the outdoor cinema, make for exceptional meals.
—Jen Murphy, Travel + Leisure, 19 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for exceptional
Cite this Entry
“Exceptional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exceptional. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
adverb
-ē
exceptionalness
noun
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