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.

At the same time, he has insisted that he is “strongly pro-vaccine” and previously advised Rational Vaccines, a controversial organization dedicated to combating the herpes virus.

From Salon • May 7, 2026

The company’s all-in approach to government contracting makes it a favorite in Washington, said Luke Rahbari, portfolio manager of the Rational Equity Armor Fund, which holds Palantir stock.

From Barron's • Mar. 2, 2026

The rest of “The Rise and Fall of Rational Control,” devoted to German thinkers, draws out the implications of Rousseau’s extraordinary suggestion.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 30, 2026

Rational minds aren’t looking at the Mariners’ three consecutive losses as a surefire sign that they’ll regress after last year’s drought-breaking season.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 2, 2023

For an illustration of our topic in its highest form, the reader is referred to those pages of Dr. Hickok's "Rational Psychology," where he analyzes personality into its elements of Spontaneity, Autonomy, and Liberty.

From Know the Truth; A critique of the Hamiltonian Theory of Limitation by Jones, Jesse H.

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