supervision

noun

su·​per·​vi·​sion ˌsü-pər-ˈvi-zhən 

: the action, process, or occupation of supervising

especially : a critical watching and directing (as of activities or a course of action)

Synonyms of supervision

• oversight
• stewardship
• management
• control
• guidance
• superintendence
• leadership

Examples of supervision in a Sentence

Young children need constant supervision.

She's responsible for the supervision of a large staff.

Recent Examples on the Web

One of the bills, introduced by Stefani, expands the ability of certified nurse-midwives to provide care for pregnant and postpartum patients by specifying that supervision by a physician is not required when providing certain services. — Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 27 Sep. 2026

In 1958, the school board became an independent body with general supervision over schools, after voters approved a constitutional amendment. — CBS News, 27 Sep. 2026

The forward-looking read is that fasting will earn a legitimate but narrow place in cardiometabolic care, under supervision, with bloodwork, for the right patients. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 25 Sep. 2026

Each service is performed by a student under the supervision of a licensed instructor. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for supervision

• cablevision
• circumcision
• imprecision
• indecision
• subdivision
• television
• abscission
• collision
• decision
• derision
• division
• elision

Kids Definition

supervision

noun

su·​per·​vi·​sion ˌsü-pər-ˈvizh-ən 

: the act of supervising

especially : a critical watching and directing (as of activities)