# superman

/ˈsupɝˌmæn/ (US) · /sˈuːpəmˌæn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/superman
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. fictional superhero

noun · CEFR A2

a famous comic-book character who has incredible strength and can fly.

For teachers: a fictional superhero appearing in American comic books, characterized by superhuman strength, flight, and invulnerability.

- The child wore a red cape and pretended to be Superman.
- The cultural impact of Superman extends far beyond comic books, influencing the modern archetype of the selfless hero in Western media.

### 2. extraordinary man

noun · CEFR B2

a man who seems to have much more power, skill, or energy than a normal person.

For teachers: a man of extraordinary or seemingly superhuman powers, intellect, or physical capability.

- He worked twenty hours a day; his colleagues thought he was a superman.
- The CEO was often portrayed as a corporate superman, capable of turning failing companies into market leaders overnight through sheer force of will.

### 3. philosophical ideal

noun · CEFR C2 · Academic · Technical

an idea from philosophy about a future type of human who is better and stronger than people today.

For teachers: a translation of the Nietzschean 'Übermensch', representing a superior human being who creates their own values and transcends conventional morality.

- The professor explained Nietzsche's theory of the superman during the lecture.
- Nietzsche’s concept of the superman has been frequently misinterpreted and misappropriated by various political movements throughout the twentieth century.

### 4. physical exercise

noun · CEFR B1

an exercise where you lie on your stomach and lift your arms and legs off the floor.

For teachers: a core-strengthening exercise performed by lying prone and simultaneously raising the arms, chest, and legs.

- Hold the superman position for thirty seconds to strengthen your lower back.
- The trainer recommended incorporating supermans into the routine to improve spinal stability and counteract the effects of sitting at a desk all day.

## Examples

- The philosopher wrote about the rise of the Superman.
- In his lectures, the professor explained how the Superman represents a rejection of traditional religious and social structures.
- Nietzsche's concept of the Superman has been frequently misinterpreted as a biological or racial ideal rather than a psychological and philosophical goal for human evolution.

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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.