# superhuman

/ˌsupɝˈhjumən/ (US) · /sˈuːpəhjˌuːmən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/superhuman
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

having abilities or qualities that are much greater than those of a normal person. You use this to describe someone who is incredibly strong, fast, or smart.

For teachers: exceeding normal human power, size, or capability. Often describes physical or mental attributes that appear impossible for an ordinary person to achieve.

## Examples

- The athlete shows superhuman strength during the final race.
- Rescue workers often perform superhuman feats of endurance when searching for survivors after a major natural disaster.
- The protagonist in the novel possesses a superhuman memory, allowing him to recall every detail of a conversation he heard decades ago.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used both in literal contexts, such as science fiction, and in figurative contexts to praise exceptional effort.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.