SUPEREROGATORY Synonyms: 41 Similar and Opposite Words

supererogatory

adjective

ˌsü-pər-i-ˈrä-gə-ˌtȯr-ē

Definition of supererogatory

as in extra

being over what is needed now that the dress code has been e-mailed to everyone and posted on our intranet site, a paper memo about it seems supererogatory

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of supererogatory Precisely as Japan becomes a producer of Honda two-stroke engine motorcycles and other consumer distractions, Mishima is preoccupied with the glories of imperial Japan, revealed in the supererogatory sacrifices of its children. — Michael Brendan Dougherty, National Review, 7 Sep. 2020 These supererogatory merits were at the disposal of the pope, who could, in effect, offer them for sale. — Marilynne Robinson, New Republic, 12 Dec. 2017

Recent Examples of Synonyms for supererogatory

Adjective

This jacket is constructed from a heavyweight cotton, providing an extra layer that keeps you cozy on chilly fall days.

— Jessie Quinn, PEOPLE, 20 Sep. 2026
For many Broward educators, the compensation funded through this referendum is not a bonus or extra spending money.

— Roberto Fernandez III, Sun Sentinel, 20 Sep. 2026

Definition of extra

Adjective

Even worse, the wing screens — the big digital screens mounted at the base of the F50’s wingsail — were fizzling out with the excess water torrenting out of the gloomy Sassnitz sky.

— Andrew Rice, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
The boots apply rhythmic pressure to the legs to improve circulation and move excess fluid out, which can ease heavy, tired legs after a long day of walking, a round of golf or a doubles match.

— Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of excess

Adjective

Commissioners approved nearly $1 billion in tax funding for the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, including a last-minute boost of $11 million in surplus county money.

— Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 18 Sep. 2026
That experience led to me founding a global nonprofit and two for-profit social enterprise brands that turn surplus items into an opportunity in low- and middle-income nations.

— Wayne Elsey, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026

Definition of surplus

Adjective

In fact, most aircraft can be perfectly serviceable, but may remain grounded due to waiting for spare parts, an engineering decision, depot work, or some other bit of support.

— Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 19 Sep. 2026
Skou pointed to freight forwarding giant DSV, which uses drones to move spare parts to offshore wind farms and between data centers.

— Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 18 Sep. 2026

Definition of spare

Browse Nearby Words

supereminent

supererogatory

superexpensive

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“Supererogatory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/supererogatory. Accessed 23 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of supererogatory

adjective

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