sensational

[ sen-sey-shuh-nl ]

adjective

1. producing or designed to produce a startling effect, strong reaction, intense interest, etc., especially by exaggerated, superficial, or lurid elements:

   a sensational novel.

   Synonyms: exciting

   Antonyms: dull, prosaic

2. extraordinarily good; conspicuously excellent; phenomenal:

   a sensational quarterback.

3. of or relating to the senses or sensation.

sensational

/ sɛnˈseɪʃənəl /

adjective

1. causing or intended to cause intense feelings, esp of curiosity, horror, etc

   sensational disclosures in the press

2. informal.
   extremely good

   a sensational skater

3. of or relating to the faculty of sensation
4. philosophy of or relating to sensationalism

Derived Forms

• senˈsationally, adverb

Other Words From

• sen·sation·al·ly adverb
• pseudo·sen·sation·al adjective
• unsen·sation·al adjective
• unsen·sation·al·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of sensational¹

First recorded in 1830–40; sensation + -al ¹

Example Sentences

In the wake of Paul Waring’s sensational Abu Dhabi victory, Laurie Canter is eyeing more English glory in the Middle East at this week’s DP World’s Tour Championship.

From BBC

We got our first close-up look at it in 1986, when Voyager 2 flew past and sent back sensational pictures of the planet and its five major moons.

From BBC

There was also Motie’s catch and a sensational one-handed grab at slip by Buttler, who gave up the gloves and dropped down to number three as he finally took the field in England’s white-ball rebuild.

From BBC

"The note was just sensational, I was just in utter amazement," Ross said.

From BBC

“We tackle difficult situations that come up in real life, and treat them without being sensational,” she said.

From BBC

Related Words

• amazing
• astounding
• breathtaking
• dramatic
• electrifying
• exciting
• hair-raising
• horrifying
• lurid
• outstanding
• remarkable
• scandalous
• shocking
• spectacular
• thrilling