extraordinary Meaning, Definition & Usage

adjective beyond what is ordinary or usual; highly unusual or exceptional or remarkable
- extraordinary authority
- an extraordinary achievement
- her extraordinary beauty
- enjoyed extraordinary popularity
- an extraordinary capacity for work
- an extraordinary session of the legislature
adjective satellite far more than usual or expected
over-the-top; sinful.
- an extraordinary desire for approval
- it was an over-the-top experience
adjective satellite (of an official) serving an unusual or special function in addition to those of the regular officials
- an ambassador extraordinary

L. extraordinarius; extra on the outside + ordinarius: cf. F. extraordinaire. See Ordinary.

Beyond or out of the common order or method; not usual, customary, regular, or ordinary; as, extraordinary evils; extraordinary remedies.
Which dispose To something extraordinary my thoughts. Milton.
Exceeding the common degree, measure. or condition; hence, remarkable; uncommon; rare; wonderful; as, extraordinary talents or grandeur.
Employed or sent upon an unusual or special service; as, an ambassador extraordinary.

plural Extraordinaries

That which is extraordinary; -- used especially in the plural; as, extraordinaries excepted, there is nothing to prevent success.
Their extraordinary did consist especially in the matter of prayers and devotions. Jer. Taylor.