Definitions

rational

[rash-uh-nl, rash-nl] / ˈræʃ ə nl, ˈræʃ nl /

ADJECTIVE

realistic; of sound mind

Synonyms

STRONGEST

analytical balanced deliberate enlightened impartial intelligent judicious levelheaded logical lucid normal prudent reasonable sane sensible sober stable thoughtful wise

STRONG

calm cool intellectual knowing objective reasoning sound synthetic thinking

WEAK

all there cerebral circumspect cognitive collected deductive discerning discriminating far-sighted perspicacious philosophic ratiocinative reflective sagacious together well-advised

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless confused foolish idiotic illogical insane irrational nonsensical senseless stupid thoughtless unbalanced unintelligent unreasonable unstable unsystematic unwise

STRONG

agitated excited

WEAK

ridiculous unrealistic unsound

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Meanwhile Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that “every rational and diplomatic path must be used to reduce tensions,” the Journal External link reported, citing Iranian state media.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

“His decisions at trial,” his lawyers argue, were “based on fear and paranoia rather than rational thinking; he would fixate on small details, while missing the big picture.”

From Slate • Apr. 20, 2026

Let’s be real, rational thought portends the obvious: It’s a wrap.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

For anyone who still believes the stock market is totally rational, the past seven weeks have provided an expensive education.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

This translation is even more rational than the traditional one.

From "Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea" by Charles Seife

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