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

Because Iran is a theocratic dictatorship that routinely arrests and in some cases executes journalists, Western reporters hoping to cover the country must either work clandestinely or submit to government supervision. — James Kirchick, The Atlantic, 29 July 2026

The way to repair one's reputation is through quality, and quality comes in terms of making better decisions, better supervision, more accountability, proper disclosure and self-discipline. — Jon Michail, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Another approach, such as in Washington state, is alternative sentencing, which allows eligible parents to serve part or all of a sentence at home, under intensive community supervision or electronic monitoring. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 29 July 2026

With close supervision, a safe way out and a thorough post-swim rinse, many dogs can enjoy the pool without getting in over their heads. — Lauren Paige Richeson, USA Today, 29 July 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)