exceptionalism
|ex-cep-tion-al-ism|
/ɪkˌsɛpʃəˈnælɪzəm/
being treated as an exception / uniqueness
Etymology
'exceptionalism' is formed in Modern English from the adjective 'exceptional' plus the suffix '-ism' (denoting doctrine or practice). 'Exceptional' ultimately derives from Latin 'exceptio' (from 'excipere'), where 'ex-' meant 'out' and 'capere' (or 'cipere' in compounds) meant 'to take'. The suffix '-ism' comes via Greek '-ismos' and Latin '-ismus', used to form doctrines or movements.
'exceptional' developed from Old French/Latin forms (e.g., Old French 'excepcion', Medieval Latin 'exceptio' / 'exceptionalis') into Middle and Modern English 'exception' and 'exceptional'; the modern noun 'exceptionalism' was then created by attaching English '-ism' to 'exceptional'.
Originally related to the act of 'excepting' or 'taking out' (a literal exception), the sense evolved to mean 'being exceptional' (unusual or superior) and later extended to ideological uses—i.e., the doctrine that a nation or entity is uniquely different or exempt from general rules.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the state or quality of being exceptional; extraordinariness or notable superiority.
The artist's exceptionalism set her apart from her peers.
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Noun 2
a belief or doctrine that a country, society, or institution is inherently different from and often superior to others (e.g., American exceptionalism).
American exceptionalism has influenced U.S. foreign policy for decades.
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Noun 3
the practice or policy of treating a person, group, issue, or case as exempt from general rules or standards.
There was controversy over regulatory exceptionalism that allowed some firms to skip standard inspections.
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Last updated: 2026/01/12 21:49