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Definitions

sensational

[sen-sey-shuh-nl] / sɛnˈseɪ ʃə nl /
ADJECTIVE
startling, exaggerated
Synonyms
STRONGEST
amazing astounding breathtaking dramatic electrifying exciting hair-raising horrifying lurid outstanding remarkable scandalous shocking spectacular thrilling
WEAK
X-rated arresting colored conspicuous drop-dead emotional excessive extravagant histrionic histrionical hotdog juicy marked melodramatic noticeable piquant pointed prominent pungent revealing salient sensationalistic signal staggering stimulating sultry tabloid vulgar
Antonyms
STRONGEST
normal ordinary regular unexciting unremarkable usual
WEAK
run-of-the-mill unexceptional
ADJECTIVE
excellent, superb
Synonyms
STRONGEST
astonishing breathtaking dramatic exceptional exciting fabulous glorious impressive incredible marvelous spectacular stirring surprising thrilling
WEAK
agitating cool dandy divine eloquent first-class keen mind-blowing most moving out of this world smashing wicked zero cool
Antonyms
STRONGEST
common insignificant
WEAK
inferior poor

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.

He opened with sensational breaks of 132 and 127 and looked to be in his element as he stomped around the auditorium.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

The production, full of sensational aerial maneuvers and fog-strewn scenic thrills, is mesmerizing.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Understandable, considering the sensational world we live in.

From Salon • Apr. 29, 2026

Otherwise, they run the risk of making sensational claims that don’t make sense.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

The sensational Beecher-Tilton trial proved to be the longest and most publicized trial of its time.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

Vocabulary lists containing sensational

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