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Synonyms

sensational

American  
[sen-sey-shuh-nl] / sɛnˈseɪ ʃə nl /

adjective

  1. producing or designed to produce a startling effect, strong reaction, intense interest, etc., especially by exaggerated, superficial, or lurid elements.

    a sensational novel.

    Synonyms:
    exciting
    Antonyms:
    dull, prosaic
  2. extraordinarily good; conspicuously excellent; phenomenal.

    a sensational quarterback.

  3. of or relating to the senses or sensation.


sensational British  
/ sɛnˈseɪʃənəl /

adjective

  1. causing or intended to cause intense feelings, esp of curiosity, horror, etc

    sensational disclosures in the press

  2. informal extremely good

    a sensational skater

  3. of or relating to the faculty of sensation

  4. philosophy of or relating to sensationalism

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • pseudosensational adjective
  • sensationally adverb
  • unsensational adjective
  • unsensationally adverb

Etymology

Origin of sensational

First recorded in 1830–40; sensation + -al 1

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.

The United States won the men's Olympic ice hockey gold medal for the first time in 46 years by beating neighbours Canada 2-1 in a sensational conclusion to the 2026 Winter Olympics.

From BBC

That was pretty ugly, but sensational headlines might be the least of SafeSport’s problems.

From Salon

NSW Waratahs coach Dan McKellar praised star Wallabies winger Max Jorgensen for rapidly "building a highlights reel" after his sensational try ensured the team continued their unbeaten start to the Super Rugby season.

From Barron's

"My post is a simple question to government supporters and nothing else. It doesn't involve any community, any rumour or sensational news," Patil told BBC Marathi.

From BBC

Petrecca had been a last-minute stand-in, because the original commentator was dropped for revealing a "sensational surprise" element of the ceremony by mistake.

From BBC