remarkable
Americanadjective
-
notably or conspicuously unusual; extraordinary.
a remarkable change.
-
worthy of notice or attention.
- Synonyms:
- striking, distinguished, noteworthy, notable, rare, uncommon, singular, unusual, exceptional
adjective
-
worthy of note or attention
a remarkable achievement
-
unusual, striking, or extraordinary
a remarkable sight
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of remarkable
From the French word remarquable, dating back to 1595–1605; see remark, -able
Explanation
Something remarkable is unusual, exceptional, interesting, or excellent. Remarkable things get your attention. If you take this word literally, you can figure out the meaning: remarkable things make you want to make a remark about them. They get you talking because they're so unusual or good. Getting a B on a test isn't remarkable, unless you usually get D’s. Getting to meet the president would be pretty remarkable. Save this word for things that are really and truly exceptional.
Vocabulary lists containing remarkable
Steve Jobs's Commencement Address (2005)
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Essential English Vocabulary, List 2
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Very Necessary: Synonyms for "Important"
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In his bestseller “Unreasonable Hospitality,” restaurateur and hospitality guru Will Guidara takes that even further; the subtitle is “The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 3, 2026
His next book, “Forest of the Sea: The Remarkable Life and Imperiled Future of Kelp,” is scheduled to be published in 2026.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 16, 2025
Asked to sum up his brother, he replied with a single word: "Remarkable".
From BBC • Mar. 12, 2025
Remarkable survivors, they have similarly endured climatic changes throughout their evolutionary history, yet some may wonder whether they have now finally met their match.
From Salon • Sep. 7, 2024
“Unremarkable ain’t a bad thing. You simply don’t have Remarkable powers, and it’s rare for Unremarkables to see the Remarkable without a wand. Bet you’ve seen strange things your whole life, haven’t you?”
From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
