What does superiority mean?
Superiority is the condition of being higher in rank, greater in power, better in performance, or more advantageous than something else. It commonly describes a competitive advantage, as in a claim of military or intellectual superiority, but it can also refer to the quality of a superior position more generally. When applied to people's attitudes, it suggests an exaggerated sense of importance or a belief that they are better than others, often carrying a negative connotation. The related adjective superior is used for things that rank above others, while superiority emphasizes the broader condition or claim of being better or dominant. The word comes from the Latin comparative of superus, meaning “above” or “higher,” and developed in English in the sense of a higher rank or position before acquiring its modern associations with advantage, achievement, and social hierarchy.
nounThe state or quality of being superior, especially in rank, power, achievement, or quality. It can also refer to an advantage over someone or something else.
- The state or quality of being superior in rank, power, achievement, or quality.
- An advantage or dominant position relative to another person or group.
- A belief or attitude that one is superior, especially when it is exaggerated or expressed with prejudice.
"The team's superior strategy gave them a clear superiority over their rivals."
"Their superiority in technical knowledge allowed them to solve the problem more efficiently."
"His air of superiority alienated colleagues who had worked alongside him for years."
The plural is used when referring to different instances or claims of superiority.
"The rivalry between the two clubs was based on their differing sporting superiorities."
Superiority can describe the highest rank, the greatest advantage, or the psychological belief that one is better than others.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does superiority come from?
Superiority comes from the Latin noun superioritas, derived from superior, the comparative form of superus, meaning “above” or “higher.” The word entered Middle English in the sense of a superior position or rank and later developed the meanings of advantage and an attitude of superiority. Its relatives include superior, supreme, superlative, and supernatural, all of which reflect the same Latin root concerning being above or beyond something.
Related word forms
How superiority is actually used
In its first and second senses, the word is generally neutral to favorable when describing a real advantage, though it can imply excessive pride when used of a person. In its third sense, it often has a negative or psychological connotation.
Easily confused with superiority
Supremacy usually emphasizes supreme power or authority, whereas superiority is broader and can mean being better in quality, achievement, performance, or advantage.
A privilege is a special right or advantage that someone enjoys, while superiority describes a comparative position rather than a specific entitlement.