rhizoverbBeta
DictionarysensationalStrong excitement
adjective

sensational

sen-SAY-shuh-nul/senˈseɪʃənl/

Producing a strong emotional response.

The crowd cheers as the acrobat gives a sensational high-wire performance.

A delighted crowd reacts to an extraordinary high-wire performance, dramatic but safe secured setting.
Etymology
sensationEnglishexcited public feeling
+alEnglishrelating to

Here sensation means collective excitement rather than a bodily feeling. Sensational shifted from describing things related to the senses to describing works or events that stir powerful emotions.

In context

andrew gold | heretics.23:20
it's such a sensational story that it gets to the top of the newspapers, which is female wardens sleeping with prisoners.
Prison Governor Reveals What It's Really Like Inside - Vanessa Frake

More examples

  • The witness makes a sensational claim that shocks the courtroom.
  • Her sensational comeback brings the fans to their feet.
  • The article uses sensational headlines to stir fear rather than explain the facts.

Forms

sensational

sensationally adverb — In a way that arouses strong emotions.

sensationalism noun — Presentation designed to provoke strong emotional reactions.

Similar words

thrilling
Emphasizes intense excitement or pleasure rather than shock.
shocking
Emphasizes disturbing surprise or outrage rather than admiration.
spectacular
Emphasizes an impressive display rather than emotionally manipulative presentation.