exceptionalism

noun

ex·cep·tion·al·ism ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nə-ˌli-zəm

: the condition of being different from the norm

also : a theory expounding the exceptionalism especially of a nation or region

exceptionalist

ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nə-list

adjective

Examples of exceptionalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

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.

As a result, American Robot confronts his religious traumas and complex family structures to deconstruct the story of American exceptionalism and upholster the founding hopes of its culture. —

Tyler Shepherd, USA TODAY, 21 Nov. 2024 In that sense, modernization theory was not so much the culmination of American exceptionalism as a warning against it. —

Charles King, Foreign Affairs, 24 Oct. 2023 The political traditions of England planted the seeds of American exceptionalism in Jamestown and Plymouth from the outset: representative assemblies, consent to a constitutional charter, and the liberty of dissenting religious communities. —

The Editors, National Review, 28 Nov. 2024 Vance leverages traumatic stories into a tale of personal exceptionalism, a narrative that often focuses on casting blame and stigmatizing poor folks. —

Wyatt Deihl, Sun Sentinel, 20 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for exceptionalism

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of exceptionalism was in 1929

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Exceptionalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exceptionalism. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Copy Citation