Superb Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🌟
Add to dictionary

superb

[suːˈpɜːb ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

quality

of very high quality; excellent or outstanding

Synonyms

excellent, exceptional, marvelous, outstanding, splendid.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
superb

This word is often used to describe something or someone that is impressively good, often in a way that suggests admiration.

  • The hotel service was superb
  • Her performance in the play was absolutely superb
excellent

Use this word to describe something of very high quality or superior. It's a common word in both formal and informal settings.

  • She wrote an excellent essay
  • The weather today is excellent
outstanding

This word is often used to highlight something remarkably good, deserving special recognition or attention.

  • She received an award for her outstanding work
  • The view from the top is outstanding
exceptional

This word emphasizes something or someone that is unusually good, often standing out from the norm.

  • His skills are exceptional
  • It was an exceptional opportunity
splendid

This word is used to describe something beautiful or impressive, often in a grand or luxurious way.

  • They threw a splendid party
  • The palace had splendid architecture
marvelous

Use 'marvelous' to describe something that causes wonder or amazement, often with a sense of magic or grandeur.

  • We had a marvelous time at the party
  • Her cooking is marvelous

Examples of usage

  • The performance was superb, exceeding all expectations.
  • She has a superb taste in music.
  • The view from the top of the mountain was simply superb.
Context #2 | Adverb

degree

in an excellent or outstanding manner

Synonyms

brilliantly, excellently, marvelously, outstandingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
superb

Redundant entry; see the first entry for 'superb'.

excellently

Appropriate for describing actions or results that are done very well, generally used in informal and formal contexts.

  • The students performed excellently in their exams
  • He executed the project plan excellently
outstandingly

Used when highlighting someone or something that stands out significantly above others due to superior quality or performance, often in formal contexts.

  • The athlete performed outstandingly in the competition
  • Her research was outstandingly comprehensive
brilliantly

Used to describe someone or something that performs tasks with great intelligence or skill, often in creative or academic settings.

  • She played the piano brilliantly during the concert
  • He solved the complex problem brilliantly
marvelously

Best suited for describing something that is wonderful or extraordinary, often with a sense of admiration or delight.

  • You did marvelously in the play! The garden looks marvelously beautiful in spring

Examples of usage

  • She sings superbly.
  • The team played superbly in the championship game.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art and Literature

  • Many painters and writers have used the word to describe their masterpieces, often elevating them to a level of extreme beauty.
  • In Shakespeare's works, characters often describe feelings or creations as 'superb' to emphasize their grandeur or importance.
  • Art critics frequently use the term to evaluate works that exceed expectations, emphasizing mastery in technique or emotional impact.

Pop Culture

  • The term has been used in popular music, such as in song lyrics where artists express admiration for someone or something outstanding.
  • Cinematic reviews often deploy 'superb' to highlight exceptional performances or directing that stand out at awards ceremonies.
  • Superb is commonly used in advertisements to promote products, emphasizing their high quality to attract consumers.

Psychology

  • People often associate high-quality experiences with happiness, as something described as 'superb' generates positive emotions.
  • Research suggests that using positive language such as 'superb' can influence an individual's mood and lead to a better overall outlook.
  • Studies in positive reinforcement indicate that receiving recognition for superb efforts increases motivation and productivity.

Origin of 'superb'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'superbus', meaning 'proud' or 'stately', showing how its meaning has evolved.
  • In Old French, 'superbe' carried a similar meaning of greatness and excellence, influencing its current usage in English.
  • It became a part of English vocabulary in the 16th century, reflecting a time of great admiration for arts and achievements.

The word 'superb' originated from the Latin word 'superbus' meaning 'excellent' or 'proud'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, 'superb' has come to signify something of exceptional quality or excellence.


See also: super, superficial, superfluous, superior, superlative, supervise.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,824 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.