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

Relevance

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

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 That’s even without considering a two-year window before sensational quarterback Jayden Daniels is eligible for a contract extension. Ben Standig, The Athletic, 26 Feb. 2025 The world of entertainment is gearing up for its most glorious gala, the sensational celebration of film excellence that is the Oscars. Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 26 Feb. 2025 Playing sensational basketball from start to finish, Burries finished with 33 points in Roosevelt’s 58-51 victory over St. John Bosco on Tuesday night, earning the Mustangs a spot in Saturday’s championship game against Sherman Oaks Notre Dame at Toyota Arena in Ontario. Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 26 Feb. 2025 Glenelg Country, which got a sensational 33-point performance from senior star Pat Curtin, fell to 20-7. Glenn Graham, Baltimore Sun, 20 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensational
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensational
Adjective
  • Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up to date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
    Raven Brunner, People.com, 4 Mar. 2025
  • The sheets seem to be what Cal transcribed from the tablet during his last day alive: transcripts of the scientific mission and Billy’s corresponding orders, information on survivors and their location — lots of good, juicy stuff.
    Kimberly Roots, TVLine, 4 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • While current events may have some of us impulsively reaching for a handle of off-brand, under-the-sink vodka, more discerning consumers want clever cocktails and the sensory experiences and stories that come with them.
    Joey Skladany, Bon Appétit, 6 Mar. 2025
  • Taste is the sensory engine that powers restaurants.
    Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 6 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Alabama got 24 points from Mark Sears and had excellent defensive stretches but couldn’t finish.
    Joe Rexrode, The Athletic, 2 Mar. 2025
  • More Deebo Samuel news: 49ers Send Star WR Deebo Samuel to Commanders in Blockbuster Trade Samuel will take his talents to the nation's capital and look to take the Commanders to the next level after an excellent year for the young Washington team.
    Dan Perry, Newsweek, 2 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Boasting almost one million views, the slideshow shows the minuscule pup during his time at the shelter: dressed in brightly-colored sweaters, resting on colorful, warm blankets, and surrounded by toys—many of them bigger than him.
    Ross Rosenfeld, Newsweek, 26 Feb. 2025
  • Gone are the rainbow dreads of yore with Clinton taking the stage in Chicago clad in a colorful robe and a t-shirt bearing an image of the iconic P-Funk mothership following an enthralling opening performance by the Windy City’s own Tamarie T. & Thee Elektra Kumpany.
    Jim Ryan, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • That’s because the singer’s soft, sensual vocals and sense of spacing maintain a strident sense of passion and grace, only to end this breathless encounter on a major chord and a hastened beat.
    A.D. Amorosi, Variety, 24 Feb. 2025
  • From her breakout album Control to the socially conscious Rhythm Nation 1814 and the sensual evolution of The Velvet Rope, Jackson’s career has been a masterclass in reinvention.
    Okla Jones, Essence, 22 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • So actually, the story can be looked at as a celebration of the fact that your disability can just be one wonderful part of you.
    Esme Mazzeo, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2025
  • And now my wonderful desk light is starting to flicker.
    Inga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Beyond sensorial gratification, facial steaming's skin-care benefits are actually quite bountiful.
    Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 28 Feb. 2025
  • The eucalyptus and cedar oil scent is calming for a full sensorial experience.
    Celia Shatzman, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Just look at the terrific films and stars left standing, shut out.
    Tom Gliatto, People.com, 2 Mar. 2025
  • And Kieran Culkin is the highlight of the piece, absolutely terrific in a mercurial and emotional role, and the Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild winner is the clear favorite to win best supporting actor.
    Brian Truitt, USA TODAY, 1 Mar. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sensational.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensational. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on sensational

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!