Super Words

As a prefix, super- originates from the Latin super, an adverb and preposition meaning above, on top of, beyond, beside. That’s the original meaning of the English prefix, too, though according to the Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology, it has taken on other senses over the centuries. These include:

Higher in rank, quality or degree (example: superstructure)
In the highest, or to a high degree, in excess ( example: superabundance)
Expressing addition (example: supertax)

Here are some super words which have the same root:

Superb – excellent
Supercilious – proud, arrogant (from the Latin for above the eyelid)
Supercomputer – extra powerful and quick computer
Superfine – extremely refined, over refined
Superhuman
Superintendent – director or manager of an organisation
Superior – greater in number or quality
Superlative – of outstanding quality
Superman (originating with Nietzsche rather than Clark Kent’s alter ego)
Supermodel – an exceptionally successful catwalk model
Supernatural – inexplicable through natural laws; miraculous
Superscribe – to write above
Supersede – to supplant or replace
Supervise – to direct or oversee

There are dozens of others. Why not add yours in the comments or in the forum?

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Sharon on May 19, 2008 | Filed Under Vocabulary

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6 Responses to “Super Words”

Roshawn on May 19th, 2008 10:24 am

Here are a few more:

superfluous
superhighway
supermarket
superpower
supersonic
D.F. Rucci on May 19th, 2008 7:56 pm

Thanks for your tips!
Sharon Hurley Hall on May 20th, 2008 11:03 am

Thanks for the additions, Roshawn.
m on May 21st, 2008 4:27 am

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious
Toka on June 4th, 2008 7:31 pm

Thanks alot its agreat site
Alex on June 25th, 2008 4:36 pm

Superimpose!
Just thought I’d put one in there, hehehe.