Superhuman: meaning, definitions and examples

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superhuman

 

[ ˌsuːpərˈhjuːmən ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

comic books

A superhuman is a character in comic books with extraordinary abilities beyond those of regular humans. These abilities may include super strength, speed, flight, and invulnerability.

Synonyms

metahuman, superhero.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
superhuman

This is a repetition of the word 'superhuman.' It is already explained above.

metahuman

Typically used in the context of science fiction or fantasy to describe individuals who possess abilities or powers beyond the average human due to genetic mutations, technological enhancements, or other unnatural means. The term is neutral and often used in narratives involving extraordinary abilities.

  • After the accident, he discovered he was a metahuman with the power to control electricity.
  • The city developed special protocols to manage metahuman activities.
superhero

Refers to a character, usually in comics or movies, who possesses extraordinary powers or abilities and uses them to fight evil and protect the innocent. The term has a positive connotation and is associated with heroism.

  • Spider-Man is a famous superhero with the ability to climb walls and sense danger.
  • She dreams of becoming a superhero and saving the world from villains.

Examples of usage

  • Superman is a superhuman who can fly and has super strength.
  • Wonder Woman is a superhuman with incredible combat skills.
Context #2 | Adjective

describing abilities

Superhuman describes abilities or qualities that exceed normal human capabilities. It implies a level of excellence or power that is beyond the ordinary.

Synonyms

exceptional, extraordinary.

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Word Description / Examples
superhuman

Used to describe abilities or qualities that are far beyond normal human capabilities, often in a context of physical strength or endurance.

  • He showed superhuman strength by lifting the car off the trapped child.
  • Her recovery from the injury was superhuman, leaving doctors in disbelief.
extraordinary

Used to describe something or someone strikingly unusual, remarkable, or surprising, often in a positive way but can also mean unusual in a neutral or negative sense.

  • The team put in an extraordinary effort to win the championship.
  • It's extraordinary how different the twins are in terms of personality.
exceptional

Used to describe someone or something that is unusually good, much better than average in terms of skill, intelligence, or quality.

  • She has exceptional musical talent, winning numerous awards before she was ten.
  • The restaurant is known for its exceptional service and cuisine.

Examples of usage

  • The athlete's superhuman speed allowed him to break the world record.
  • Her superhuman resilience in the face of adversity inspired others.

Translations

Translations of the word "superhuman" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sobre-humano

🇮🇳 सुपरह्यूमन

🇩🇪 übermenschlich

🇮🇩 supermanusia

🇺🇦 надлюдина

🇵🇱 nadczłowiek

🇯🇵 スーパーヒューマン

🇫🇷 surhumain

🇪🇸 sobrehumano

🇹🇷 süper insan

🇰🇷 초인

🇸🇦 فوق الإنسان

🇨🇿 nadlidský

🇸🇰 nadľudský

🇨🇳 超级人类

🇸🇮 nadčlovek

🇮🇸 ofurmenni

🇰🇿 суперадам

🇬🇪 ზეკაცი

🇦🇿 superinsan

🇲🇽 sobrehumano

Etymology

The term 'superhuman' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'super-' (meaning above, over, or beyond) with 'human'. It gained popularity in the context of science fiction and comic books, referring to characters with extraordinary abilities. The concept of superhuman abilities has fascinated and inspired people for centuries, reflecting humanity's desire for greatness and transcendence.

See also: dehumanise, dehumanising, dehumanization, dehumanize, dehumanizing, humanitarian, humanitarians, humanity, humanization, humanize, humanizing, humankind, humans, inhuman, inhumanity, metahuman, subhuman.