WordGarden.iosuperpower
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈuːpəpˌaʊə/
US
- /ˌsupərˈpaʊər/
Meanings
Noun
an exceptional personal strength, talent, or advantage
a superhuman or extraordinary ability, especially in fiction
a country with dominant global political and military influence
Beyond the definition
A superpower is not just about flying or shooting lasers from your eyes, though it can be. It can mean any unusual talent, skill, or quality that makes someone stand out. The word is often linked to comic book heroes, but people also use it for real-life strengths. For example, being calm in a crisis might be someone's superpower, or having a great ability to understand other people's feelings.
The term became widely used in the mid-20th century to describe countries with very great political, military, and economic power, such as the United States and the Soviet Union. Today, people also use it in a broader and more playful way for imaginary powers or outstanding human strengths. You might say that Marie Curie's superpower was her deep focus on science, or that your grandmother's superpower is baking the perfect apple pie.
The word "superpower" first became widely known as a way to describe a country with enormous influence in world affairs. In this sense, it refers to a nation with very strong political, military, and economic power. This meaning became common around the mid-20th century, especially when people were talking about the United States and the Soviet Union. Over time, though, the use of "superpower" spread far beyond politics.
Today, many people first think of fictional characters in comic books, movies, and stories. Superman's flight and invulnerability, or Wonder Woman's great strength and magical lasso, are classic examples. In this use, the word refers to abilities that go far beyond what ordinary humans can do.
But "superpower" is not limited to fantasy. It can also describe a remarkable skill or talent that a real person has. A gifted musician might have a "superpower" for playing difficult melodies by ear, while a talented negotiator might have a "superpower" for calming tense conflicts. In this sense, the word points to what makes a person especially effective or impressive.
People often use the word in a playful way to highlight personal strengths: "Her superpower is remembering everyone's birthday," or "His superpower is finding the best deals." The idea is that even without capes or masks, people can have special abilities that make a real difference. Whether you are talking about world politics, legendary heroes, or a friend's unusual talent, "superpower" suggests an exceptional level of ability, strength, or influence.
Examples
- 1
Global power
Many people believed the country would become a global superpower.
- 2
Postwar politics
After the war, the world was dominated by two superpowers.
- 3
Economic power
China has grown into an economic superpower.
- 4
Personal strength
In job interviews, she says her superpower is staying calm under pressure.
- Phrasesomeone's superpower
their special strength
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Product strength
The app's real superpower is how easily it connects different tools.
See also
Similar
- world power
- great power
Shades of meaning
- hegemon
- hyperpower
Contrast
- minor power
- regional power
Used with (collocations)
- global superpower
- military superpower
- economic superpower
- emerging superpower
Explore
- geopolitics
- sphere of influence
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- superpowernoun
Forms
- superpowerspluralnoun