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View synonyms for extraordinary

extraordinary

[ik-strawr-dn-er-ee, ek-struh-awr-]

adjective

  1. beyond what is usual, ordinary, regular, or established.

    extraordinary costs.

    Synonyms: inordinate
    Antonyms: usual, common
  2. exceptional in character, amount, extent, degree, etc.; noteworthy; remarkable.

    extraordinary speed;

    an extraordinary man.

    Antonyms: usual, common
  3. (of an official, employee, etc.) outside of or additional to the ordinary staff; having a special, often temporary task or responsibility.

    minister extraordinary and plenipotentiary.



extraordinary

/ ɪkˈstrɔːdənrɪ, -dənərɪ /

adjective

  1. very unusual, remarkable, or surprising

  2. not in an established manner, course, or order

  3. employed for particular events or purposes

  4. (usually postpositive) (of an official, etc) additional or subordinate to the usual one

    a minister extraordinary

“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
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Other Word Forms

  • extraordinarily adverb
  • extraordinariness noun
  • unextraordinary adjective
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Word History and Origins

Origin of extraordinary1

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English extraordinarie, from Latin extrāordinārius “beyond ordinary,” equivalent to extra- + ordinary
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Word History and Origins

Origin of extraordinary1

C15: from Latin extraordinārius beyond what is usual; see ordinary
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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.

“During his years at Crystal, Daniel was known not only for his extraordinary intellect and chess mastery, but also for his warmth, humility, and kindness,” Sortino wrote in an emailed statement.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It's been called "an extraordinary dereliction of duty".

Read more on BBC

Technology has given younger investors extraordinary access, but it has also brought the human impulses that drive gambling into the world of investing.

Read more on Barron's

An extraordinary Diet session is scheduled to be convened Tuesday, when lawmakers are expected to vote to choose the nation’s next prime minister.

“The estate’s rich textures, thoughtful design elements, and bespoke accents make it not just a residence but a work of art—an extraordinary sanctuary where home meets artistry in perfect harmony,” it said.

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extraordinaireextraordinary general meeting