superiority

noun

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

Synonyms of superiority

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Examples of superiority in a Sentence

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
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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.
Advertisement Thirdly, place names should not be used to proclaim cultural superiority, advance territorial ambitions, or assert exclusive national ownership over geographical spaces shared among different peoples. — Reuben Rose-Redwood, Time, 23 Oct. 2026 Forest had the bulk of the chances in a gritty second period but could not make its superiority count. — ABC News, 23 Oct. 2026 The wicker man’s superiority makes all the villagers feel ashamed. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026 If military superiority alone could end wars, then Afghanistan and Iraq would have been relatively easy American wins. — Anna Mulrine Grobe, Christian Science Monitor, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for superiority

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

Phrases Containing superiority

Rhymes for superiority

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Browse Nearby Words

superior general
superiority
superiority complex
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Cite this Entry

“Superiority.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/superiority. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about superiority

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