exclusive
/ɪkˈsklu.sɪv/ · ex-clu-sive
noun
- Information (or an artefact) that is granted or obtained exclusively. The editor agreed to keep a lid on a potentially disastrous political scoop in exchange for an exclusive of a happier nature.
- A member of a group who exclude others from their society. The exclusive club members were known for their snobbish behavior.
- A word or phrase that restricts something, such as only, solely, or simply. The exclusive use of the word 'only' in this sentence emphasizes the restriction.
adjective
- Excluding items or members that do not meet certain conditions. The exclusive criteria for the scholarship program were strict.
- Referring to a membership organisation, service or product: of high quality and/or renown, for superior members only. Exclusive clubs tend to serve exclusive brands of food and drinks, in the same exorbitant price range, such as the 'finest' French châteaux.
- Exclusionary. The exclusive policies of the company were criticized for being discriminatory.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Did you know? The word 'exclusive' has its roots in Latin, where it was used to describe something that was shut out or excluded from something else. This sense of exclusivity has evolved over time to encompass a range of meanings, from restrictive language to high-end products and services.