Supernatural: meaning, definitions and examples

👻
Add to dictionary

supernatural

 

[ˌsuː.pərˈnætʃ.ər.əl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

TV show

Relating to phenomena that cannot be explained by natural laws.

Synonyms

otherworldly, paranormal, unexplained.

Examples of usage

  • The TV show Supernatural follows two brothers as they hunt demons and other supernatural beings.
  • Many people are fascinated by the supernatural and enjoy watching shows and movies about ghosts, vampires, and other paranormal creatures.
Context #2 | Noun

belief

An event or being that is beyond scientific understanding, often associated with the spiritual or mystical.

Synonyms

metaphysical, mystical, supernormal.

Examples of usage

  • Many cultures have legends and myths about supernatural beings such as ghosts, gods, and spirits.
  • Belief in the supernatural can vary widely, with some people embracing it wholeheartedly and others dismissing it as mere superstition.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'supernaturalis', meaning 'above nature' or 'beyond the natural world'.
  • It combines 'super-', meaning 'above', and 'naturalis', meaning 'natural'.
  • The concept originated in early philosophical discussions regarding existence beyond physical reality.

Pop Culture

  • Films and TV shows, like 'Supernatural', often feature characters fighting zombies, ghosts, or otherworldly entities.
  • The horror genre heavily relies on supernatural themes to create suspense and fear, tapping into our fascination with the unknown.
  • Harry Potter introduced many supernatural elements, blending magic with a relatable school experience.

Religion and Belief Systems

  • Many religions involve supernatural elements, such as deities, angels, or miracles, which are beliefs that exist beyond the natural world.
  • In various cultures, spirits or ancestors are believed to influence daily life and events from a supernatural realm.
  • Supernatural beliefs often serve as explanations for life's mysteries or natural disasters throughout history.

Science and Psychology

  • The belief in supernatural phenomena can sometimes be explained by psychological effects, such as pareidolia, where people see patterns like faces in random objects.
  • Studies in psychology show that experiences of the supernatural can provide comfort to people, especially in times of crisis.
  • The human brain is wired to search for meaning and connection, which can lead to supernatural interpretations of unexplainable events.

Literature

  • Classic literature, such as Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', explores themes of the supernatural through ghosts and prophecies.
  • Many authors use supernatural elements to explore human experiences, fears, and desires in their storytelling.
  • The Gothic genre, featuring writers like Edgar Allan Poe, often incorporates the supernatural to evoke emotions related to fear and mystery.

Translations

Translations of the word "supernatural" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sobrenatural

🇮🇳 अलौकिक

🇩🇪 übernatürlich

🇮🇩 gaib

🇺🇦 надприродний

🇵🇱 nadprzyrodzony

🇯🇵 超自然的 (ちょうしぜんてき)

🇫🇷 surnaturel

🇪🇸 sobrenatural

🇹🇷 doğaüstü

🇰🇷 초자연적인 (chojayeonjeogin)

🇸🇦 خارق للطبيعة (khariq littabiea)

🇨🇿 nadpřirozený

🇸🇰 nadprirodzený

🇨🇳 超自然 (chāozìrán)

🇸🇮 nadnaraven

🇮🇸 yfirnáttúrulegur

🇰🇿 жаратылыстан тыс

🇬🇪 ზებუნებრივი (zebunebrivi)

🇦🇿 qeyri-təbii

🇲🇽 sobrenatural

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,873 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.