sensational

adjective

sen·​sa·​tion·​al sen-ˈsā-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce sensational (audio)
1
: of or relating to sensation or the senses
2
: arousing or tending to arouse (as by lurid details) a quick, intense, and usually superficial interest, curiosity, or emotional reaction
sensational tabloid news
3
: exceedingly or unexpectedly excellent or great
a sensational talent
sensationally adverb

Examples of sensational in a Sentence

She looked sensational in her new dress. the sensational news story caused a stir, but after a few days everyone forgot about it
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.
FanDuel Promo Code: Score $150 Bonus, Free NBA League Pass Lastly, FanDuel has another sensational offer for basketball fans. David Faris, Newsweek, 2 Nov. 2024 His fans wanted in on the experience, and Mezrich set up a tip line through which guys would call him with sensational book ideas. Simon Van Zuylen-Wood, Vulture, 1 Nov. 2024 Gigi Perez’s sensational breakout moment has reached new heights with her first ever No. 1 single on the U.K. Singles Chart. Thomas Smith, Billboard, 1 Nov. 2024 The Giants did attempt to make a comeback though, with rookie running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. rushing 45 yards for a sensational touchdown a little under two minutes later. Ben Morse, CNN, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sensational 

Word History

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensational was in 1807

Dictionary Entries Near sensational

Cite this Entry

“Sensational.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensational. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

sensational

adjective
sen·​sa·​tion·​al sen-ˈsā-shnəl How to pronounce sensational (audio)
-shən-ᵊl,
sən-
1
: of or relating to sensation or the senses
2
: arousing a strong and usually shallow interest or emotional reaction
sensational news
3
: exceedingly or unexpectedly excellent or great
a sensational diving catch
sensationally
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on sensational

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!