Supersede Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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supersede

[หŒsuห.pษ™rหˆsiหd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

to replace

To take the place of (a person or thing previously in authority or use); supplant.

Synonyms

override, replace, supplant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
supersede

Used when something takes the place of something else because it is considered superior or more modern.

  • The smartphone has largely superseded the basic mobile phone
  • New laws have superseded old regulations
replace

A general term used when one thing is used instead of another.

  • He replaced the old light bulb with a new one
  • The company is looking to replace its outdated software
supplant

Implies replacing something, often through force or strategy, and can have a negative connotation.

  • Digital streaming services have supplanted traditional cable TV
  • The new king supplanted his predecessor after a coup
override

Often used in the context of authority, to describe when someone uses their power to reject or cancel a decision. Can have a negative implication depending on the context.

  • The manager can override the team's decision
  • The judge decided to override the previous ruling

Examples of usage

  • It was superseded by a new model.
  • The old rules have been superseded by new ones.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In legal documents, one contract may supersede another, meaning the new one takes precedence over the old.
  • Courts often refer to new laws that supersede older laws, demonstrating how updates in legislation can change the rules.
  • In estate planning, a new will can supersede previous ones, reflecting more current wishes of the person.

Technology

  • Software updates often supersede older versions to introduce new features and fix bugs.
  • In the tech world, newer devices typically supersede older models, providing better performance and capabilities.
  • When designing systems, newer protocols can supersede outdated ones, ensuring more efficient communication.

Literature

  • In storytelling, a new storyline or character can supersede previous ones, changing the direction of the plot.
  • In the world of publishing, a new edition of a book often supersedes earlier ones, reflecting updated content.
  • Authors may revise their works, creating new narratives that supersede their original intentions.

Everyday Usage

  • In daily life, new trends can supersede older ones, like fashion styles that come and go.
  • A new law or rule may supersede an older one, making it invalid or obsolete.
  • Think of how a new favorite activity might supersede an old hobby in someoneโ€™s life, showing the changes we embrace.

Origin of 'supersede'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'supersedere,' meaning 'to sit above,' suggesting a position of dominance.
  • It was first used in English in the early 15th century, indicating a shift in meaning from its roots.
  • The prefix 'super-' commonly indicates something that is superior or greater.

The word 'supersede' originated from the Latin word 'supersedere', which means 'to sit above, abstain from', formed from 'super-' (above) and 'sedere' (to sit). The word was first recorded in English in the 15th century.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,128, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.