Definitions

rational

[rash-uh-nl, rash-nl] / ˈræʃ ə nl, ˈræʃ nl /

ADJECTIVE

realistic; of sound mind

Synonyms

STRONGEST

analytical balanced deliberate enlightened impartial intelligent judicious levelheaded logical lucid normal prudent reasonable sane sensible sober stable thoughtful wise

STRONG

calm cool intellectual knowing objective reasoning sound synthetic thinking

WEAK

all there cerebral circumspect cognitive collected deductive discerning discriminating far-sighted perspicacious philosophic ratiocinative reflective sagacious together well-advised

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless confused foolish idiotic illogical insane irrational nonsensical senseless stupid thoughtless unbalanced unintelligent unreasonable unstable unsystematic unwise

STRONG

agitated excited

WEAK

ridiculous unrealistic unsound

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He added: "Her conclusions are rational and supported by proper, adequate and intelligible reasons."

From BBC • Jun. 23, 2026

So a lot of people think bubbles are an ideological thing, instead of a material thing with reasons and motives that are totally rational — and that we can short-circuit.

From Salon • Jun. 22, 2026

In other words, this is an entirely reasonable, rational movie!”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 13, 2026

Adoration of leaders can be dangerous and should not be a part of rational analysis.

From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026

Some brows creased as rational minds grappled with this proof of the impossible—or at least the hitherto inconceivable.

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor

Vocabulary lists containing rational

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