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Showing results for rational. Search instead for rationaln.
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.

Lewis admitted some of the witness stories were compelling and "would have an effect" on him as he pondered them before his rational self took over.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

That sounds so much more rational and innovative.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

Nations that believe they can outcompete anyone, anywhere embrace open markets as a matter of rational self-interest.

From Barron's • Mar. 20, 2026

Moreover, the economy is an abstract concept for many Americans, often making their judgments about its overall health wrong, as humans are not purely rational in their political decision-making.

From Salon • Mar. 8, 2026

My opposition was beyond rational, it was visceral.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.