exceptional

adjective

ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce exceptional (audio)
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 noun
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
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.
Her work in front of and behind the camera has been exceptional. Banseka Kayembe, Refinery29, 18 July 2025 Yet the difference between successful, not-enough-hours-in-the-day executives and truly exceptional leaders with ample downtime often lies in their ability to protect their attention. Ginni Saraswati, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025 Looking at data statewide, more half of Texas three months ago was in severe, extreme or exceptional (level 4 of 4) drought. Mary Wasson, Austin American Statesman, 18 July 2025 Made from ultra-soft leather with precision stitching, this Malbon golf glove delivers exceptional grip and comfort with a super elegant appeal, with its magnetic button closure. Jené Luciani Sena, FOXNews.com, 18 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for exceptional

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of exceptional was in 1787

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Cite this Entry

“Exceptional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exceptional. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

exceptional

adjective
ex·​cep·​tion·​al ik-ˈsep-shnəl How to pronounce exceptional (audio)
-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
exceptionalness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on exceptional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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