The word "surmounted" is spelled as /sərˈmaʊntɪd/. The first syllable "sur-" is pronounced as /sər/, which means over, above, or higher than. The second syllable "-mount-" is pronounced as /maʊnt/, which means to climb or ascend. The final syllable "-ed" indicates that the word is in past tense form. Therefore, "surmounted" means to have climbed or conquered something difficult, to have overcome an obstacle or challenge that was previously blocking one's progress.
Surmounted is a verb that refers to overcoming a challenge, obstacle, or difficulty. It describes the act of conquering, surpassing, or prevailing over a particular situation or problem. When someone or something is said to have surmounted an obstacle, it means they have successfully dealt with it and achieved success or progress on the other side.
The term suggests a sense of triumph or victory, indicating the overcoming of hindrances or setbacks. It implies the ability to rise above challenges and emerge in a favorable position. For example, a person may have surmounted a difficult childhood to become successful in their career, or a team may have surmounted an unfavorable score to win a game.
Surmounted can also be used in a literal sense, referring to the act of physically scaling or reaching the top of a mountain, hill, or other elevated structure. It suggests the act of conquering the physical environment and attaining a higher point or vantage point.
Overall, surmounted denotes the act of overcoming challenges or obstacles, whether figurative or literal, and achieving success or victory. It embodies the idea of surpassing difficulties and rising above limitations, illustrating strength, perseverance, and resilience.
In arch., applied to an arch or dome rising higher than a semicircle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word surmounted comes from the Old French word surmonter, which is derived from the Latin word supermontare. Supermontare is a combination of the Latin prefix super meaning above or over, and the Latin verb montare meaning to mount or to ascend. Therefore, surmounted originally meant to ascend or mount over something, and over time, it took on the figurative meaning of to overcome or to conquer.