Phenomenal - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

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SKIP TO CONTENT phenomenal /fəˈnɑmənəl/ /fɛˈnɒmɪnəl/ IPA guide

If you think something is amazing, astounding, or marvelous, you can also call it phenomenal. Your dog's phenomenal performance at the agilty competition earned her a blue ribbon — and a handful of biscuits.

Phenomenal things aren't just cool — they're truly remarkable and possibly even unique. Your sister's campaign to raise money for cancer research, which amassed a million dollars in two weeks? That's phenomenal. And Serena Williams, having won an unprecedented 23 Grand Slam titles, is without question a phenomenal tennis player. This extraordinary word comes from the relatively ordinary Greek phainomenon, "appearance," and its Proto-Indo-European root bha-, "to shine."

Definitions of phenomenal

adjective exceedingly or unbelievably great synonyms: extraordinary beyond what is ordinary or usual; highly unusual or exceptional or remarkable
adjective of or relating to a phenomenon “phenomenal science”

Pronunciation US /fəˈnɑmənəl/ UK /fɛˈnɒmɪnəl/ Cite this entry Style: MLA

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Copy citation DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘phenomenal'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback Word Family

Vocabulary lists containing phenomenal

The Crossover Kwame Alexander

Twin brothers Josh and Jordan Bell clash both on and off the basketball court. How high can you score on this list of words from Alexander's award-winning novel in verse?

Michelle Obama's final address as First Lady (2017)

On January 6, 2017, in celebration of the National School Counselor of the Year, Michelle Obama gave some words she hopes young Americans will always remember.

Boy: Tales of Childhood Roald Dahl

Renowned writer Roald Dahl, the author of such children's classics as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Matilda, recounts unexpected and fascinating stories from his own childhood.

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