Definition of transcend
transitive verb
1a : to rise above or go beyond the limits ofb : to triumph over the negative or restrictive aspects of : overcomec : to be prior to, beyond, and above (the universe or material existence)
2 : to outstrip or outdo in some attribute, quality, or power
intransitive verb
: to rise above or extend notably beyond ordinary limits
Explore M-W
Examples of transcend in a Sentence
music that transcends cultural boundaries
She was able to transcend her own suffering and help others.
Her concerns transcended local issues.
Did You Know?
Great leaders are expected to transcend the limitations of politics, especially during wartime and national crises. A great writer may transcend geographical boundaries to become internationally respected. And certain laws of human nature seem to transcend historical periods and hold true for all times and all places.
Origin and Etymology of transcend
Middle English, from Latin transcendere to climb across, transcend, from trans- + scandere to climb — more at scan
First Known Use: 14th century
Synonym Discussion of transcend
TRANSCEND Defined for English Language Learners
transcend
playDefinition of transcend for English Language Learners
-
: to rise above or go beyond the normal limits of (something)
TRANSCEND Defined for Kids
transcend
playDefinition of transcend for Students
transcended
;transcending
1 : to rise above the limits of The music transcends cultural boundaries.
2 : to do better or more than The poem transcended all others in its beauty.
Word Root of transcend
The Latin word scandere, meaning “to climb,” gives us the root scend. Words from the Latin scandere have something to do with climbing. To ascend is to climb upward. To descend is to climb downward. To transcend is to rise above or climb over something's limits.
Learn More about transcend
-
See words that rhyme with transcend Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for transcend Spanish Central: Translation of transcend Nglish: Translation of transcend for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of transcend for Arabic speakers
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up transcend? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!