transcendent

tran·scen·dent

adj \-dənt\

Definition of TRANSCENDENT

1

a : exceeding usual limits : surpassing b : extending or lying beyond the limits of ordinary experience c in Kantian philosophy : being beyond the limits of all possible experience and knowledge

2

: being beyond comprehension

3

: transcending the universe or material existence — compare immanent 2

4

: universally applicable or significant <the antislavery movement … recognized the transcendent importance of liberty — L. H. Tribe>

— tran·scen·dent·ly adverb

Examples of TRANSCENDENT

1. <a firm belief in angels, demons, and other transcendent beings>
2. <the star player's transcendent performance helped the team to a surprise victory>

Origin of TRANSCENDENT

Middle English, from Latin transcendent-, transcendens, present participle of transcendere

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to TRANSCENDENT

Synonyms: metaphysical, otherworldly, paranormal, preternatural, supernatural, transcendental, unearthly

Antonyms: natural

Related Words: mystic, mystical, occult, psychic (also psychical), spiritistic, spiritualistic; extrasensory, supersensible, supersensory; celestial, divine, ethereal, heavenly, numinous, spiritual, unworldly

Near Antonyms: earthly, mundane

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with TRANSCENDENT

appendant, ascendant, attendant, defendant, dependent, descendant, impendent, intendant