sensational

adjective

sen-ˈsā-shnəl How to pronounce sensational (audio)
Definition of sensationalnext
1
as in juicy
arousing a strong and usually superficial interest or emotional reaction the sensational news story caused a stir, but after a few days everyone forgot about it

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in sensory
of or relating to physical sensation or the senses sensational hallucinations

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in excellent
of the very best kind this ice cream is sensational

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of sensational Championship leader Kimi Antonelli completed the podium, with another sensational drive taking him to P2. — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 8 Oct. 2026 The four-course dinner is always sensational—feast on anything from progressive local cuisine to British classics. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 The choreography by brothers Rick Kuperman and Jeff Kuperman is sensational. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026 How sustainable is Smith-Njigba's sensational start to the 2026 season? — Andrew Destin, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensational
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensational
  1. juicy
  2. sensory
  3. excellent
  4. colorful
  5. sensual
  6. wonderful
  7. screaming
  8. sensorial
Adjective
  • Readers rave about the flavorful combination of fresh apples, plump, juicy raisins, and cinnamon.
    — Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 18 Oct. 2026
  • The actress also had a juicy central role as a cheating wife alongside Joaquin Phoenix and Vince Vaughn in the black comedy Clay Pigeons (1998), directed by David Dobkin.
    — Mike Barnes, HollywoodReporter, 18 Oct. 2026
Definition of juicy
Adjective
  • The researchers also detected these predictive responses in two sensory-processing regions of the thalamus, suggesting that anticipation involves multiple structures beneath the cerebral cortex.
    — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2026
  • Sentiments from both participants in the book and Grant’s audience echo how revisiting these recipes offers sensory catharsis in addition to talking about their grief.
    — Jessi Roti, Bon Appetit Magazine, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of sensory
Adjective
  • Williams aims to help build a county government that works for everyday people by lowering the cost of living, delivering excellent county services and protecting fundamental rights.
    — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Oct. 2026
  • Nikko Remigio’s reputation as a return man isn’t splashy plays, but rather excellent ball security.
    — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2026
Definition of excellent
Adjective
  • Frosted glass walls reveal a garden of oversize, colorful leather flowers, while wood and leather, recurring materials in Polène’s stores, appear in the furnishings.
    — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Other suites are even more striking, covered from head to toe in a flora wallpaper and bright, colorful custom furniture.
    — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of colorful
Adjective
  • The high-shine garment was seemingly painted onto Megan’s frame, both sleek and sensual, much like lingerie.
    — Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 18 Oct. 2026
  • Such is the case with black faux-leather skirts—the bold and sensual style serves as the perfect anchor for incorporating more colors into your wardrobe.
    — Michel Mejía, Glamour, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of sensual
Adjective
  • Bruna is fantastic, and Alison is a wonderful producer with a great eye.
    — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 20 Oct. 2026
  • It is carefully crafted and wincingly sincere, a wonderful conversion of inversions.
    — Samuel Hyland, Pitchfork, 19 Oct. 2026
Definition of wonderful
Adjective
  • There was more screaming and yelling for people who wanted to get a ventilator available in their home.
    — Chris Lee, Vulture, 16 Feb. 2021
Definition of screaming
Adjective
  • Even better, many products are viral TikTok favorites that live up to the hype—packed with potent ingredients and often offering unique sensorial experiences.
    — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Perfumers working with Maison Crivelli are sent a mood board, including photos, videos, oral descriptions of people met, music heard and food tasted — varied sensorial components that describe an adventure Thibaud Crivelli has had.
    — Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2026
Definition of sensorial

Browse Nearby Words

sensation
sensational
sensationalist
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Cite this Entry

“Sensational.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensational. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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