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Definition of exceptionalism

exceptionalism

/ɪkˈsɛpʃənəlɪzəm/
ex · cep · tion · al · ism
Plural:exceptionalisms
•
Adjective:exceptionalist
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exceptionalism Lexical Profile

exceptionalism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The belief or perception that a particular country, society, institution, or individual is inherently unique, superior, or exempt from normal rules and historical patterns.

Example

"The historian's latest book critically examines the roots of national exceptionalism in modern foreign policy."

2

The state or quality of being unusual, extraordinary, or an exception to a general rule.

Example

"Scientists studied the biological exceptionalism of the deep-sea organism's metabolism."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

excepting
exception
exceptional
exceptionalism
exceptionally
excerpt
excess

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century from 'exceptional' and '-ism', originally used in political analysis to describe the theory that American capitalism developed under unique conditions exempt from classic Marxist historical laws.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Exceptionalism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/exceptionalism
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