What does supernatural mean?
Supernatural describes things that belong to a realm beyond ordinary nature or that appear to violate its laws. The word can refer to ghosts, spirits, miraculous events, mysterious powers, and other phenomena for which people seek a supernatural explanation. It is often broader than terms focused on a particular phenomenon, and it commonly carries cultural or religious associations inherited from folklore, theology, and literature. In the singular, “the supernatural” can name the collective realm of such beings, forces, or experiences. The adjective is also widely used in phrases involving supernatural powers, beings, and phenomena. Because the word often implies a clash with ordinary reality, it frequently conveys mystery, wonder, or unease. A useful feature of “supernatural” is that it can describe either a supposed supernatural event or a work of fiction presenting such events, allowing the term to function both literally and figuratively.
Existing beyond or seeming to operate contrary to the laws of nature; ghostly, miraculous, or otherwise beyond ordinary experience.
"The village had long been known for its supernatural legends."
This is the word's most common grammatical use.
Supernatural beings, forces, or phenomena considered collectively.
"Throughout history, people have looked to the supernatural for answers to mysteries."
This collective use is usually literary or reflective and commonly takes the definite article.
The plural is uncommon; “the supernatural” is normally used collectively without a plural form.
"Stories about supernaturals have appeared across many different cultures."
Literally meaning “beyond nature,” supernatural captures everything that ordinary explanations leave behind.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does supernatural come from?
English formed “supernatural” in the early modern period by combining the prefix “super-” with “natural.” The prefix comes from Latin super, meaning “above” or “beyond,” while “natural” derives from Latin naturalis, meaning “of or according to nature.” The combination originally expressed the idea of what is above or beyond nature, and the word later became closely associated with miraculous, ghostly, and other unexplained phenomena.
Related word forms
How supernatural is actually used
As an adjective, “supernatural” is common in general, literary, religious, and cultural contexts. As a noun, it is usually collective and somewhat literary, often appearing in the phrase “the supernatural.”