exceptionalism

noun

ex·​cep·​tion·​al·​ism ik-ˈsep-sh(ə-)nə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce exceptionalism (audio)
: the condition of being different from the norm
also : a theory expounding the exceptionalism especially of a nation or region
exceptionalist adjective

Examples of exceptionalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Much has been discussed about the decline of American exceptionalism, but, for now, the U.S. is still the queen bee. Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 31 July 2025 The exceptionalism of our nation lies in the lofty vision of our Constitution and the Bill of Rights, as well as the long struggle to ensure that all Americans could fulfill the promise of these founding documents. Nicole Bibbins Sedaca, Boston Herald, 4 July 2025 The idea of American exceptionalism is woven into the fabric of the country’s identity. Brendan Rascius july 11, Miami Herald, 11 July 2025 This appears to be American pessimism, rather than American exceptionalism. Brendan Ahern, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Exceptionalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exceptionalism. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.

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