sensational

adjective

sen·​sa·​tion·​al sen-ˈsā-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce sensational (audio)
Synonyms of sensationalnext
1
: of or relating to sensation or the senses
2
: arousing or tending to arouse (as by lurid details) a quick, intense, and usually superficial interest, curiosity, or emotional reaction
sensational tabloid news
3
: exceedingly or unexpectedly excellent or great
a sensational talent
sensationally adverb

Synonyms

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Examples of sensational in a Sentence

She looked sensational in her new dress. the sensational news story caused a stir, but after a few days everyone forgot about it
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 interior is still sensational though, as a top-of-the-line Audi’s should be. — Ben Oliver, Robb Report, 23 Apr. 2025 Miami went 10-3 last season, and Ward was sensational. — Ryan Canfield, FOXNews.com, 22 Apr. 2025 Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo was sensational, scoring 36 points and pulling in 12 rebounds during his 38 minutes. — Tony East, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025 Brilliant blue waves meet a sensational crescent of white sand at Salt Whistle Bay, one of the most stunning anchorages in the southeastern Caribbean. — Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 19 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensational

Word History

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensational was in 1807

Rhymes for sensational

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Browse Nearby Words

sensation
sensational
sensationalise
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Cite this Entry

“Sensational.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensational. Accessed 26 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

sensational

adjective
sen·​sa·​tion·​al sen-ˈsā-shnəl How to pronounce sensational (audio)
-shən-ᵊl,
sən-
1
: of or relating to sensation or the senses
2
: arousing a strong and usually shallow interest or emotional reaction
sensational news
3
: exceedingly or unexpectedly excellent or great
a sensational diving catch
sensationally
-ē
adverb

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Nglish: Translation of sensational for Spanish Speakers

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