# superpower

/ˌsupɝˈpaʊɝ/ (US) · /sˈuːpəpˌaʊɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/superpower
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a special or magical ability that a hero has, like flying or being very strong. People also use it to describe a country that has a lot of power and influence in the world.

For teachers: an exceptional or supernatural ability possessed by a fictional character; also refers to a state with dominant international influence and military strength.

## Examples

- If you could choose any superpower, would you pick flight or invisibility?
- During the Cold War, the world was largely divided between the influence of two competing superpowers.
- The narrative explores how a character with a seemingly minor superpower can dismantle a corrupt system through creative application of their unique talent.

## Usage notes

- Often used metaphorically in modern business contexts to describe a person's greatest professional strength.

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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.