SUPERIOR Synonyms: 332 Similar and Opposite Words

superior 1 of 2

adjective

su̇-ˈpir-ē-ər

as in arrogant

having a feeling of superiority that shows itself in an overbearing attitude that superior sportscaster lets it be known that he thinks all foreign baseball teams are second-rate

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as in proud

having or displaying feelings of scorn for what is regarded as beneath oneself the superior attitude of the store owner's son drove the other employees crazy

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as in excellent

of the very best kind a five-star restaurant known for its superior wine list

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as in outstanding

standing above others in rank, importance, or achievement a university known for attracting superior scientists and mathematicians

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superior

2 of 2

noun

as in boss

one who is above another in rank, station, or office if a customer is rude to you, report it to your superior and she'll handle it

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Example Sentences

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 superior

Adjective

Hence, Tonda Eckert’s side were full value for a victory that opened up a two-point advantage over Wrexham to go with their game in hand and a vastly superior goal difference that was boosted by a significant eight-goal swing. —

Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2026 While the stock trades at a modest premium to its industry, that premium reflects exceptional profitability, superior balance-sheet quality, and multiple avenues for long-term AI monetization. —

Tony Zhang, CNBC, 8 Apr. 2026

Noun

The younger Altman was ousted in February 1998 for failing to tell his superiors about the existence of a controversial videotape that showed firefighters drinking beer and using racial slurs at a firehouse retirement party, the Tribune previously reported. —

Caroline Kubzansky, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026 Polymeropoulos described a case involving a serviceman who was treated at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and recommended for the Purple Heart by his superiors. —

Brit McCandless Farmer, CBS News, 8 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for superior

Recent Examples of Synonyms for superior

Adjective

To this point, the Heat arguably have been too stubborn, or too arrogant, in belief that the quick fix was just around the corner.

— Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 15 Apr. 2026
His style is relaxed and confident, not arrogant.

— Tara Klein, SPIN, 15 Apr. 2026