transcendental

adjective

tran·​scen·​den·​tal ˌtran(t)-ˌsen-ˈden-tᵊl 

-sən-

1

a

: transcendent sense 1b

b

: supernatural

c

: abstruse, abstract

d

: of or relating to transcendentalism

2

a

: incapable of being the root of an algebraic equation with rational coefficients

π is a transcendental number

b

: being, involving, or representing a function (such as sin x, log x, e^x) that cannot be expressed by a finite number of algebraic operations

transcendental curves

3

in Kantian philosophy

a

: of or relating to experience as determined by the mind's makeup

b

: transcending experience but not human knowledge

4

: transcendent sense 1a

transcendentally

ˌtran(t)-ˌsen-ˈden-tᵊl-ē 

-sən-

adverb

Synonyms of transcendental

• supernatural
• paranormal
• metaphysical
• mystical
• transcendent

Examples of transcendental in a Sentence

the concept of the soul as a transcendental entity that exists entirely apart from the body

in his speeches he manifests a transcendental ability to inspire people from all points on the political spectrum

Recent Examples on the Web

Some here are under the thrall of a pastor, who has convinced one particular couple, whose relationship already is fraught, that their 12-year-old son (Archer Geye) is capable of assuming a transcendental identity, so to speak. —Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 2 Mar. 2026

Maharishi International University was founded in 1971 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, who also introduced transcendental meditation. —Kyle Werner, Des Moines Register, 1 Mar. 2026

Thus, an incredible quest for stardust unfolds before our very eyes, a transcendental adventure that has much to teach us about the importance of method, perseverance, and humility. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2026

Magician Doug Henning announces plans to build Veda Land, a theme park based on magic, mysticism and transcendental meditation, in Osceola County. —Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for transcendental

• accidental
• compartmental
• continental
• detrimental
• elemental
• fundamental
• governmental
• incidental
• incremental
• instrumental
• interdental
• monumental

Kids Definition

transcendental

adjective

tran·​scen·​den·​tal ˌtran(t)s-ˌen-ˈdent-ᵊl 

-ən-

: transcendent sense 2

transcendentally

-ᵊl-ē 

adverb