Superhuman: meaning, definitions and examples
🦸♂️
superhuman
[ˌsuːpərˈhjuːmən ]
Definitions
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
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
Examples of usage
- Superman is a superhuman who can fly and has super strength.
- Wonder Woman is a superhuman with incredible combat skills.
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
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
| exceptional |
Used to describe someone or something that is unusually good, much better than average in terms of skill, intelligence, or quality.
|
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term combines 'super' from Latin, meaning 'above' or 'beyond,' with 'human' from Latin, suggesting someone beyond normal human capabilities.
- In literature, the word began appearing in the 19th century, often used to describe characters with extraordinary abilities.
Pop Culture
- Superheroes in comic books, like Spider-Man and Wonder Woman, are often seen as superhuman due to their distinct powers and skills.
- Movies like 'The Avengers' feature a cast of superhuman characters, each with unique abilities that contribute to their fight against villains.
Science
- Research in genetic engineering and biotechnology is exploring ways humans might gain traits that could be considered superhuman, such as enhanced strength or cognitive abilities.
- Athletes are sometimes described as superhuman when they break world records, performing physical feats beyond typical human limits.
Literature
- In classic literature, characters such as Gilgamesh and Hercules are depicted with superhuman traits, symbolizing the struggle between humanity and the divine.
- Many modern novels explore themes of what it means to be superhuman, often discussing the responsibilities that come with greater power.
Psychology
- Some psychologists study superhuman abilities in the context of extreme feats of endurance or mental strength, examining what drives individuals to achieve extraordinary things.
- The idea of superhuman resilience in psychology relates to how some people overcome trauma with remarkable strength and adaptability.
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