Dictionary.com

Popular Searches

 Thesaurus.com
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.

Laferriere put the Kings ahead with 2:10 left in the third period, but they couldn’t prevent another sensational play by the electric Celebrini.

From Los Angeles Times

It takes a brave person not to captain Erling Haaland in their Fantasy Premier League team because the Manchester City striker, 25, has been simply sensational in front of goal this season.

From BBC

Milan were set on their way to a comprehensive victory on the stroke of half-time by Christian Pulisic who continued his sensational form by scoring his eighth goal in 11 Serie A appearances.

From Barron's

Marnus Labuschagne – 5 – No real contribution with the bat, but gets an extra mark apiece for two sensational catches at second slip.

From BBC

Starc returned after lunch, Jacks edged and, for the second time in the match, Labuschagne swooped low to his left to claim a sensational one-handed grab.

From BBC

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.