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Superscript: meaning, definitions and examples

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superscript

 

[ ˈsuːpəskrɪpt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

text formatting

A superscript is a text formatting feature that allows a character or string of characters to be displayed slightly above the normal line of type. Superscripts are commonly used in mathematical and scientific expressions, such as exponents or chemical formulas (e.g., H₂O). They can also appear in footnotes and citations. This formatting helps distinguish certain elements from the main text for clarity and emphasis.

Synonyms

exponent, index, superscripted text.

Examples of usage

  • In the equation, x² represents x raised to the power of 2.
  • The footnote appeared as a superscript number next to the text.
  • In chemistry, the '2' in H₂O is written as a superscript.
  • The author indicated the reference with a superscript notation.

Translations

Translations of the word "superscript" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sobrescrito

🇮🇳 ऊपर लिखा हुआ

🇩🇪 Hochstellung

🇮🇩 superskrip

🇺🇦 верхній індекс

🇵🇱 indeks górny

🇯🇵 上付き文字

🇫🇷 exposant

🇪🇸 superíndice

🇹🇷 üst simge

🇰🇷 윗첨자

🇸🇦 الكتابة فوق السطر

🇨🇿 horní index

🇸🇰 horný index

🇨🇳 上标

🇸🇮 nadpis

🇮🇸 yfirskrift

🇰🇿 жоғарғы индекс

🇬🇪 ზედმიწერილი

🇦🇿 üst indeks

🇲🇽 superíndice

Etymology

The term 'superscript' originated in the early 17th century, deriving from the Latin 'supra', meaning 'above' or 'over', and the Middle English 'script', which refers to writing. The usage of superscripts began to gain prominence with the advancement of typography and typesetting techniques. As scholars and scientists sought to convey complex information in a more visually accessible format, superscripts became increasingly common in academic writing. This formatting allows for distinctions between regular text and important notations, especially in fields like mathematics, chemistry, and linguistics. The introduction of digital typesetting further standardized and popularized the use of superscripts, making it an essential part of modern written communication.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,618, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.