exceptionalism

noun

ex·​cep·​tion·​al·​ism ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce exceptionalism (audio)
: the condition of being different from the norm
also : a theory expounding the exceptionalism especially of a nation or region
exceptionalist adjective

Examples of exceptionalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The idea of American exceptionalism is woven into the fabric of the country’s identity. Brendan Rascius july 11, Miami Herald, 11 July 2025 This appears to be American pessimism, rather than American exceptionalism. Brendan Ahern, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025 However, the move lower has coincided with growing chatter about the potential end of American exceptionalism and dollar hegemony, with the public share of U.S. debt nearing $30 trillion and the 2025 deficit on track for close to $2 trillion. Jeff Cox, CNBC, 7 July 2025 That leadership, our medical exceptionalism, is in jeopardy. Amar Duggirala, Baltimore Sun, 23 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for exceptionalism

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of exceptionalism was in 1929

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Exceptionalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exceptionalism. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!