Superhero: meaning, definitions and examples

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superhero

 

[ ˈsuːpərhɪəʊ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

fictional characters

A superhero is a fictional character with superhuman abilities or powers, typically used for fighting evil or protecting the public. Superheroes often have unique costumes and names, and they are known for their bravery and willingness to sacrifice for the greater good.

Synonyms

cape crusader, masked avenger, superhuman.

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Word Description / Examples
superhero

A general term for a character with extraordinary abilities who typically fights evil or protects the public. It can be used in most situations when discussing such characters.

  • Spider-Man is a well-known superhero
  • Superheroes often work together to save the world
superhuman

Referring to a person with abilities that exceed those of normal humans. This term is somewhat broader and can be used in non-comic contexts to describe extraordinary human capabilities.

  • With superhuman strength, she lifted the car off the trapped pedestrian
  • His superhuman intellect made him the perfect strategist
cape crusader

A term that specifically evokes images of a superhero wearing a cape, often used in a nostalgic or classical context. Mainly associated with Batman.

  • The Cape Crusader was at it again, fighting crime in the dark alleys of Gotham
  • Children love the tales of the Cape Crusader
masked avenger

Used to describe a superhero who hides their identity with a mask and often acts outside the law. This term can imply a sense of mystery and perhaps a more vigilante approach.

  • By night, he was the masked avenger, bringing justice to those the law couldn’t touch
  • The city was grateful to the masked avenger for cleaning up the streets

Examples of usage

  • Superman is a well-known superhero who can fly and has super strength.
  • Spider-Man is another popular superhero who can climb walls and shoot webs from his hands.

Translations

Translations of the word "superhero" in other languages:

🇵🇹 super-herói

🇮🇳 सुपरहीरो

🇩🇪 Superheld

🇮🇩 pahlawan super

🇺🇦 супергерой

🇵🇱 superbohater

🇯🇵 スーパーヒーロー

🇫🇷 super-héros

🇪🇸 superhéroe

🇹🇷 süper kahraman

🇰🇷 슈퍼히어로

🇸🇦 بطل خارق

🇨🇿 superhrdina

🇸🇰 superhrdina

🇨🇳 超级英雄

🇸🇮 superjunak

🇮🇸 ofurhetja

🇰🇿 супергерой

🇬🇪 სუპერგმირი

🇦🇿 superqəhrəman

🇲🇽 superhéroe

Etymology

The term 'superhero' originated in the early 20th century in the United States, with the debut of characters like Superman and Batman. These characters became iconic figures in popular culture, inspiring countless comics, movies, and merchandise. Superheroes have evolved over the years, reflecting changing societal values and interests.

See also: heroes, heroic, heroin, heroine, heroism.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,403, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.