Supernatural

Pronunciation

Origin

From Latin supernaturalis, from super ("above") + natura ("nature; that which we are born with"), from natus ("born"), perfect passive participle of nasci ("to be born") + adjective suffix -alis.

Full definition of supernatural

Adjective

1. Above nature; that which is beyond or added to nature, often so considered because it is given by a deity or some force beyond that which humans are born with. In Roman Catholic theology, sanctifying grace is considered to be a supernatural addition to human nature.
2. Not of the usual; not natural; altered by forces that are not understood fully if at all.
3. Neither visible nor measurable.

Synonyms

• extraordinary, paranormal, preternatural, supranatural, unnatural

Antonyms

• ordinary
• natural

Noun

1. (countable) A supernatural being.
2. (uncountable) Supernatural beings and events collectively. When used with definite article: "the supernatural".
• 2012, Blake Morrison, The Guardian, http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/jul/20/blake-morrison-under-the-witches-spell?INTCMP=SRCH:Dr Johnson defended Shakespeare's use of the supernatural from the charge of implausibility on the grounds that, "The reality of witchcraft … has in all ages and countries been credited by the common people, and in most by the learned."