rational

modif.

1. Acting in accordance with reason

   reasonable, logical, sensible, stable, calm, cool, deliberate, discerning, discriminating, level-headed, collected, ratiocinative, thoughtful, knowing, of sound judgment, showing good sense, impartial, exercising reason, intelligent, wise, reasoning, prudent, circumspect, intellectual, reflective, philosophic, objective, far-sighted, enlightened, well-advised, judicious, analytical, deductive, synthetic, perspicacious, conscious, balanced, sober, systematic, all there*, together*; see also reasonable 1.

   Antonyms irrational, absurd, rash*.

2. Of a nature that appeals to reason

   intelligent, sensible, wise; see judicious, reasonable 1, 2.

3. Sane

   normal, lucid, responsible, clearheaded; see sane 1.

rational implies the ability to reason logically, as by drawing conclusions from inferences, and often connotes the absence of emotionalism a rational explanation for the mysterious events; reasonable suggests the use of practical reason in making decisions, choices, etc. that are fair or show good judgment a reasonable solution to a problem; sensible implies the use of common sense or sound judgment you made a sensible decision