English Reference
adjective

superb

adj.
US /sʊˈpɝb/ UK /suːpˈɜːb/ su·perb

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    extremely good or of the highest quality.

    of the highest quality; exceptionally good or first-rate.

    Simple

    The hotel provided superb service throughout our entire stay.

    In context

    The soloist gave a superb performance, demonstrating a level of technical mastery that left the audience in stunned silence.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    very impressive and grand in appearance.

    characterised by grandeur, magnificence, or stately beauty.

    Simple

    The palace was a superb example of ancient architecture.

    In context

    The cathedral's superb proportions and intricate stonework make it one of the most significant historical landmarks in the region.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency ArchaicLiterary

    acting as if you are better than other people.

    showing an arrogant or haughty attitude toward others.

    Simple

    The count gave a superb nod to the servants as he passed.

    In context

    In the old novel, the villain was described as having a superb disdain for anyone of a lower social class.

    Usage

    This sense is rarely found in modern speech and is mostly encountered in 18th or 19th-century literature.

    haughtyarrogantproud

Moreover, no key player has been sold this summer, team spirit is superb and pre-season performances have been reassuringly convincing.

The Guardian· 20 Aug 2026

It was no great surprise when, from Ryoya Morishita’s superb right-wing cross, McLoughlin headed beyond Dan Bentley to equalise.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

Learned borrowing from Latin superbus.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated