Sensational
sɛnˈseɪʃənəl
Definitions
2 meaningsCausing intense interest, excitement, or reactions; often implies dramatic or shocking elements.
sɛnˈseɪʃənəl
Causing great public interest and excitement, often of a shocking or dramatic nature.
The new movie had sensational special effects.
💡 Simply: Imagine something super exciting or dramatic – like a movie that's got everyone talking! That's sensational. It means something makes a big impression.
👶 For kids: Something sensational is very exciting and makes people talk about it.
More Examples
The singer's performance was sensational, captivating the entire audience.
The sensational news report led to widespread public debate.
How It's Used
"The newspaper published a sensational story about the scandal."
"The magician performed a sensational trick that amazed the audience."
"She made a sensational entrance at the party."
Of extremely high quality; excellent.
sɛnˈseɪʃənəl
Excellent or extremely good.
The chef created a sensational dessert.
💡 Simply: If something is sensational, it's really, really good – like the best pizza you've ever had!
👶 For kids: Something sensational is great! Really, really great!
More Examples
His presentation was sensational and received a standing ovation.
She had a sensational performance, earning her a promotion.
How It's Used
"She had a sensational game and scored three goals."
"The meal was absolutely sensational."
Synonyms
Astounding
Dramatic
Exciting
Remarkable
Amazing
Excellent
Fantastic
Marvelous
Outstanding
Idioms & expressions
sensationalize
To present information in a way that is intended to provoke public interest and excitement, often disregarding accuracy or truth.
"The media often sensationalizes events to increase ratings."
From Late Latin *sensationem* (nominative *sensatio*) meaning 'a feeling, perception'. It gained prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries, often referring to exciting or shocking events.
Originally, 'sensational' related directly to the senses. In the late 19th century it began to be applied to things that caused strong emotional reactions, sometimes with a connotation of exaggeration.
Memory tip
Think of a sensation that grabs your attention, whether good or bad. It's not just interesting, it's *sensational*!