superiority

noun

su·​pe·​ri·​or·​i·​ty su̇-ˌpir-ē-ˈȯr-ə-tē How to pronounce superiority (audio)
ˌsü-,
-ˈär-
plural superiorities
: the quality or state of being superior
also : a superior characteristic

Example Sentences

His success has given him a false sense of superiority. the superiority of some of the customers at the exclusive beauty salon is enough to curl your hair
Recent Examples on the Web The result can be a sense of moral superiority, often attended by a process of purification. Sebastian Smee, Washington Post, 3 Feb. 2023 An Immense World is about diversity, not superiority. Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 Dec. 2022 The Bucs maintained their marginal-favorite status all week despite Seattle’s superiority, both on the field and in the standings. Catena Media, al, 13 Nov. 2022 Powerful airline, oil and auto industry lobbies in Washington have spent millions maintaining that superiority, but their position is weakening in the face of environmental concerns and worsening congestion. Ben Jones, CNN, 18 Apr. 2023 Then, tragically, the Nazis come to power and see the ship as a source of power and propaganda, a symbol of their superiority. Linda Chase, Sun Sentinel, 13 Mar. 2023 The respective fan bases had made their cases for superiority. Ben Bolch, Los Angeles Times, 11 Mar. 2023 And, vital as a societal scapegoat, the lone contrasting figure against which whiteness could maintain identity and social superiority. Ebony Flake, Essence, 16 Jan. 2023 So, while Michigan and Wisconsin are technically atop the Big Ten standings, this game represents Big Ten superiority. Tanner Mcgrath, Chicago Tribune, 5 Jan. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'superiority.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of superiority was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near superiority

Cite this Entry

“Superiority.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/superiority. Accessed 31 May. 2023.

Kids Definition

superiority

noun
su·​pe·​ri·​or·​i·​ty su̇-ˌpir-ē-ˈȯr-ət-ē How to pronounce superiority (audio)
-ˈär-
plural superiorities
: the state or fact of being superior

More from Merriam-Webster on superiority

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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