sensational

/sɛnˈseɪʃɪnəl/

/sɛnˈseɪʃənəl/

Something sensational gets your attention. It's either amazing or a little trashy — like a sensational tabloid story.

Sensational things cause quite a sensation — usually a feeling of curiosity or interest. Sensational events and sensational people keep you watching and listening. A guy juggling seven flaming bowling balls is sensational. A super popular new song is sensational. But this word does have some negative connotations, as it often describes news stories that have little merit other than their shock value. "Sexy Starlet Visits Fertility Clinic!" is a trashy kind of sensational headline.

Definitions of sensational

1. adjective

   relating to or concerned in sensation
   synonyms: sensory, sensuous
2. adjective

   causing intense interest, curiosity, or emotion
   synonyms:

   lurid, shocking

   glaringly vivid and graphic; marked by sensationalism

   scandalmongering, sensationalistic, yellow

   typical of tabloids

   screaming

   resembling a scream in effect

   antonyms:

   unsensational

   not of such character as to arouse intense interest, curiosity, or emotional reaction
3. adjective

   commanding attention
   “a sensational concert--one never to be forgotten”

   synonyms: arresting, stunning

   impressive

   making a strong or vivid impression