What does sensationally mean?
Sensationally is an adverb meaning in an intensely exciting, dramatic, or remarkable way. It is often applied to public reactions, publicity, events, or commercial success: a story may be sensationally popular, a performance may sell sensationally, or an exhibition may be sensationally well received. In this sense, the word highlights the scale of public interest or emotional impact rather than merely providing a neutral description. It can also mean exceptionally or remarkably, particularly when describing rapid growth, strong sales, or outstanding success. The expression often carries a connotation of spectacle and intense attention, and in some contexts it may suggest that sensationalism is involved. Sensationally derives from the same Latin root as sensation and sensory, linking its modern use with ideas of feeling, perception, and strongly felt public response.
In a way that causes strong excitement, shock, or public attention.
"The report was sensationally covered by newspapers around the world."
Often used for events, stories, performances, or publicity that generate exceptional interest or emotional impact.
To an exceptional, remarkable, or strikingly impressive degree.
"The business expanded sensationally after its first year."
Common in contexts involving success, popularity, growth, or sales.
Sensationally can describe both a thunderous public reaction and an astonishingly successful performance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sensationally come from?
Sensationally is formed from the adjective sensational, which in turn comes from sensation. These words descend through Latin from sentire, meaning 'to feel' or 'to perceive.' The sense of causing strong feeling or public excitement developed during the 19th century, when sensational became associated with dramatic and emotionally stirring presentations.
How sensationally is actually used
The word often conveys publicity, excitement, or dramatic impact, and can carry a faintly critical implication when describing attention-seeking treatment. In phrases such as 'sell sensationally,' it more commonly means exceptionally or strikingly well.
Easily confused with sensationally
Sensationally is the standard adverb, while sensationally is a less common variant or possible misspelling of it.