phenomenal

[ fi-nom-uh-nl ]

adjective

1. highly extraordinary or prodigious; exceptional:

   phenomenal speed.

   Synonyms: unprecedented, surpassing, outstanding, uncommon

2. of or relating to phenomena.
3. of the nature of a phenomenon; cognizable by the senses.

phenomenal

/ fɪˈnɒmɪnəl /

adjective

1. of or relating to a phenomenon
2. extraordinary; outstanding; remarkable

   a phenomenal achievement

3. philosophy known or perceived by the senses rather than the mind

Derived Forms

• pheˈnomenally, adverb

Other Words From

• phe·nome·nali·ty noun
• phe·nome·nal·ly adverb
• nonphe·nome·nal adjective
• nonphe·nome·nal·ly adverb
• semi·phe·nome·nal adjective
• semi·phe·nome·nal·ly adverb
• unphe·nome·nal adjective
• unphe·nome·nal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of phenomenal¹

First recorded in 1815–25; phenomen(on) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

At the time, first lady Michelle Obama praised Jamison as a “an amazing, phenomenal, ‘fly’ woman.”

From Los Angeles Times

I feel like I have to put every tip into one phenomenal recipe.

From Los Angeles Times

Maiava agrees: “It’s been phenomenal for me,” he said Wednesday, “just learning a lot from the game.”

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s impressive, phenomenal,” said Jeffrey Korzenik, chief economist at Fifth Third Bank, referring to the American economy’s exceptional run of strong output and full employment.

From Los Angeles Times

Freeman's impact on the series has been phenomenal, given that there were doubts over whether he would be fit enough to make the World Series roster.

From BBC

Related Words

• extraordinary
• fantastic
• marvelous
• miraculous
• outstanding
• prodigious
• remarkable
• sensational
• substantial
• unparalleled
• unusual