superhero
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈuːpəhˌiərəʊ/
US
- /ˌsupərˈhiroʊ/
Description
- costumed champion
- powerful protector
- heroic figure
- extraordinary rescuer
A superhero is more than someone with great strength or the ability to fly, though those things can be part of it. It is usually a character in comic books, movies, or TV stories who protects others and fights evil or injustice. Many have special powers, but the heart of the idea is simple: this is someone who chooses to help, even when it is hard or dangerous. Characters like Superman and Wonder Woman show this clearly. The word is also used in everyday life for real people, such as firefighters, doctors, or anyone who does something very brave or helpful.
The word "superhero" often brings to mind caped figures fighting villains, but its meaning is broader than that. In modern English, it is most strongly linked to comic books and the movies, shows, and games that grew from them. A superhero is usually a fictional hero with unusual abilities, advanced technology, or exceptional skills who uses them to protect people and stop danger. Famous examples include Batman, Spider-Man, Superman, and Captain Marvel.
But the word does not stay only in fiction. People also use it in everyday speech for real people who show unusual courage, kindness, or dedication. A doctor working through a crisis, a firefighter rescuing people from a burning building, or even a parent doing everything possible for a child may be described this way. In these cases, the word is not literal. It is a warm, admiring way to say that someone has done something far beyond the ordinary.
At its core, the idea combines heroism with something extra. Sometimes that "extra" is a special power, like flight or super strength. Sometimes it is a brilliant mind, remarkable skill, or unusual bravery. What matters most is not the costume or the power itself, but the choice to use one's gifts to help others.
So whether you are talking about a comic-book character or praising a real person, "superhero" suggests someone larger than life: a figure of courage, protection, and action when it matters most.
Examples
- 1
Childhood dream
As a child, she wanted to grow up and be a superhero.
- 2
School play
The kids dressed up as their favorite superheroes for the school play.
- 3
Movie genre
I'm a little tired of superhero movies these days.
- 4
Everyday help
You don't have to be a superhero to help someone in trouble.
- 5
Household help
After he fixed the sink, cooked dinner, and put the kids to bed, she called him a superhero.
Pattern
call someone a superhero
say they did something especially impressive or helpful
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- superhero