far beyond what is usual in magnitude or degree; a night of exceeding darkness; an exceptional memory; olympian efforts to save the city from bankruptcy; the young Mozarts prodigious talents

[ Syn: exceeding , olympian , prodigious , surpassing ]

surpassing what is common or usual or expected; he paid especial attention to her; exceptional kindness; a matter of particular and unusual importance; a special occasion; a special reason to confide in her; whats so special about the year 2000?

[ Syn: especial , particular , special ]

deviating widely from a norm of physical or mental ability; used especially of children below normal in intelligence; special educational provisions for exceptional children'