The correct spelling for the phrase "super human" is /suːpər ˈhjuːmən/. It is composed of two words, "super" meaning above or beyond and "human" meaning relating to or characteristic of humankind. In IPA notation, the first syllable is pronounced with a long u sound, as in 'soup', followed by the stressed syllable containing the vowel sound /juː/. The final syllable contains the schwa sound /ən/, which is the unstressed syllable in the word.
Superhuman is an adjective used to describe someone or something that possesses extraordinary or exceptional abilities, qualities, or attributes beyond those typically found in normal humans. The term "super" signifies an elevated level of performance, capability, or power, surpassing the natural or usual limits of human potential.
When applied to an individual, a superhuman possesses enhanced physical, mental, or intellectual prowess, often considered to be beyond the reach of ordinary individuals. This can include exceptional strength, agility, endurance, or speed, as well as advanced sensory perception or sharp intellect. Superhumans may also exhibit superior emotional intelligence, empathy, or resilience compared to the average person.
The term "superhuman" is not limited to human beings alone and can also encompass entities such as supernatural beings, extraterrestrial creatures, or fictional characters. Superhuman abilities can take various forms, depending on the context, ranging from the powers of superheroes in comic books, such as flying or shooting energy beams, to extraordinary skills displayed by exceptionally gifted individuals in various fields, like prodigious musical talent or photographic memory.
In popular culture, the concept of superhuman often serves as a source of fascination, inspiring countless stories, myths, and legends that explore the boundaries of human potential and the unknown capabilities that lie within us all.
The word "superhuman" originated from combining two separate components: "super" and "human".
1. "Super" can be traced back to the Latin prefix "super-", meaning "above" or "beyond", which ultimately comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *uper, also meaning "above". In Latin, "super" could also be used as an adverb with the sense of "above" or "beyond". This prefix carries the connotation of surpassing or exceeding normal limits.
2. "Human" comes from the Latin word "humanus", which originates from "homo" meaning "man" or "human being". This Latin term shares a common root with other Indo-European languages, like Sanskrit "manu", Old English "ful", and others. It relates specifically to the qualities, characteristics, physiology, and nature associated with humans.