exceptional

American  

[ik-sep-shuh-nl] / ɪkˈsɛp ʃə nl /

adjective

1. forming an exception or rare instance; unusual; extraordinary.

   The warm weather was exceptional for January.

   Synonyms:

   anomalous, aberrant, unnatural, strange, singular, uncommon

2. unusually excellent; superior.

   an exceptional violinist.

   Antonyms:

   ordinary, average

3. Education. (of a child)

   1. being intellectually gifted.

   2. being physically or especially mentally disabled to an extent that special schooling is required.

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exceptional British  

/ ɪkˈsɛpʃənəl /

adjective

1. forming an exception; not ordinary

2. having much more than average intelligence, ability, or skill

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Related Words

See irregular.

Other Word Forms

• exceptionality noun
• exceptionally adverb
• exceptionalness noun
• nonexceptional adjective
• preexceptional adjective
• quasi-exceptional adjective
• superexceptional adjective

Etymology

Origin of exceptional

First recorded in 1840–50; exception + -al ¹

Explanation

Generally, exceptional is a compliment––"the concert was exceptional" means it was better than what could have been expected. But it can also just mean unusual. "Maria gets to skip gym, but hers is an exceptional case." Exceptional begins with the Latin prefix ex- 'out,' because something exceptional stands out in some way. In certain cases, exceptional can mean under-performing. Children with special educational needs are sometimes referred to in this way, as exceptional or special.

Example Sentences

“Backing to the natural beauty of woods and a creek, the property enjoys exceptional privacy and a sense of peaceful seclusion,” the description continues.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

It takes an exceptional piece of art to inspire audiences to think twice about what comes as second nature, to choose compassionate contemplation over ardent debate.

From Salon • Apr. 9, 2026

Excluding exceptional items, adjusted earnings are expected to be between 15 cents and 19 cents, with analysts expecting 17 cents.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

The Dodgers moved longtime coach and scout Monty Basgall — known as an exceptional infield instructor — from the front office to the field to help the players adjust to their new roles.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

In all, Edward Tulane felt himself to be an exceptional specimen.

From "The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane" by Kate DiCamillo

Related Words

• extraordinary
• notable
• noteworthy
• odd
• phenomenal
• rare
• remarkable
• singular
• special
• strange
• uncommon
• unheard-of
• unique
• unprecedented
• unusual