exceptional Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite far beyond what is usual in magnitude or degree
    surpassing; prodigious; olympian; exceeding.
    • a night of exceeding darkness
    • an exceptional memory
    • olympian efforts to save the city from bankruptcy
    • the young Mozart's prodigious talents
  2. adjective satellite surpassing what is common or usual or expected
    especial; particular; special.
    • he paid especial attention to her
    • exceptional kindness
    • a matter of particular and unusual importance
    • a special occasion
    • a special reason to confide in her
    • what's so special about the year 2000?
  3. adjective satellite deviating widely from a norm of physical or mental ability; used especially of children below normal in intelligence
    • special educational provisions for exceptional children

WordNet

Ex*cep"tion*al adjective
Etymology
Cf. F. exceptionnel.
Definitions
  1. Forming an exception; not ordinary; uncommon; rare; hence, better than the average; superior. Lyell.
    This particular spot had exceptional advantages. Jowett (Th. )
    -- Ex*cep"tion*al*ly adv.

Webster 1913