phenomenal

[fi-nom-uh-nl] /fɪˈnɒm ə nl/
adjective
1.
highly extraordinary or prodigious; exceptional:
phenomenal speed.
2.
of or pertaining to phenomena.
3.
of the nature of a phenomenon; cognizable by the senses.
Origin
1815-25; phenomen(on) + -al1
Related forms
phenomenality, noun
phenomenally, adverb
nonphenomenal, adjective
nonphenomenally, adverb
semiphenomenal, adjective
semiphenomenally, adverb
unphenomenal, adjective
unphenomenally, adverb
Can be confused
phenomena, phenomenal, phenomenon (see usage note at phenomenon)
Synonyms
1. uncommon, outstanding, surpassing, unprecedented.
Examples from the web for phenomenal
  • For the most part, it is much more worthwhile to dwell on the phenomenal opportunities than on the poison pens.
  • Ultimately, the book is a candid testament to a phenomenal creative drive joined with a phenomenal will to live.
  • Bike through this riverside town to soak in phenomenal fall colors.
  • On occasion, I make phenomenal pancakes for all three of us.
  • It is phenomenal that so many knitters and designers have been inspired by the knitting of a tiny island.
  • The phenomenal evidence directly confirms that the universe is discontinuous.
  • He was smart and funny and charming, and he had phenomenal energy.
  • He's had a huge growth and developmental spurt and he's in phenomenal shape.
  • It's phenomenal to contribute to the online discourse and to educate the public.
  • It was a phenomenal experience.
British Dictionary definitions for phenomenal

phenomenal

/fɪˈnɒmɪnəl/
adjective
1.
of or relating to a phenomenon
2.
extraordinary; outstanding; remarkable: a phenomenal achievement
3.
(philosophy) known or perceived by the senses rather than the mind
Derived Forms
phenomenally, adverb
Word Origin and History for phenomenal
adj.

1803, "of the nature of a phenomenon," a hybrid from phenomenon + -al (1). Meaning "remarkable, exceptional" is from 1850.

[Phenomenal] is a metaphysical term with a use of its own. To divert it from this proper use to a job for which it is not needed, by making it do duty for remarkable, extraordinary, or prodigious, is a sin against the English language. [Fowler]
Related: Phenomenally.