# supersonic

/ˌsupɝˈsɑnɪk/ (US) · /sˈuːpəsˈɒnɪk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

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

## Definition

moving or traveling faster than the speed of sound. You use this to describe very fast planes or the loud noise they make when they break the sound barrier.

For teachers: relating to or capable of achieving speeds greater than the speed of sound in the surrounding medium. Typically used attributively to describe aircraft, projectiles, or airflow.

## Examples

- The supersonic jet crossed the ocean in record time.
- Residents living near the airbase often hear a loud boom when the fighter jets reach supersonic speeds during training.
- Engineers must account for extreme heat and pressure when designing the fuselage of a supersonic transport vehicle to ensure structural integrity at Mach 2.

## Usage notes

- Typically precedes the noun it modifies; often used in technical or aviation contexts.

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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.