Definition of TRANSCENDED (original) (raw)
1
a
: to rise above or go beyond the limits of
b
: to triumph over the negative or restrictive aspects of : overcome
c
: to be prior to, beyond, and above (the universe or material existence)
2
: to outstrip or outdo in some attribute, quality, or power
Did you know?
Great leaders are expected to transcend the limitations of politics, especially during wartime and national crises. A great writer may transcend geographical boundaries to become internationally respected. And certain laws of human nature seem to transcend historical periods and hold true for all times and all places.
Synonyms
Choose the Right Synonym for transcend
surpass suggests superiority in quality, merit, or skill.
the book surpassed our expectations
transcend implies a rising or extending notably above or beyond ordinary limits.
transcended the values of their culture
excel implies preeminence in achievement or quality and may suggest superiority to all others.
outdo applies to a bettering or exceeding what has been done before.
outstrip suggests surpassing in a race or competition.
outstripped other firms in sales
Examples of transcend in a Sentence
music that transcends cultural boundaries She was able to transcend her own suffering and help others. Her concerns transcended local issues.
Word History
Etymology
Middle English, from Latin transcendere to climb across, transcend, from trans- + scandere to climb — more at scan
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a
Time Traveler
The first known use of transcend was in the 14th century
Dictionary Entries Near transcend
Cite this Entry
“Transcend.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transcend. Accessed 3 Jul. 2024.
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Last Updated: 30 Jun 2024 - Updated example sentences
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