What does supernaturally mean?
Supernaturally is an adverb describing something done through powers or forces beyond the ordinary laws of nature. It is commonly used with words such as strong, powerful, fast, graceful, and accurate to intensify an unusual impression: a person might move supernaturally quickly, or an athlete might possess supernaturally strong reflexes. The word can describe genuine religious or magical phenomena, but in everyday writing it is often figurative, expressing awe, exaggeration, or the impression that a result was achieved with improbable ease. Its literary tone means that it is less common in precise technical or neutral descriptions than words such as “incredibly” or “exceptionally.” Although it can imply something impossible, it does not necessarily require belief in the supernatural; writers frequently use it to emphasize a striking contrast between an outcome and ordinary human ability.
adverbIn a way that involves supernatural powers or events, or by means beyond the laws of nature.
- By supernatural means; in a manner that exceeds natural laws or abilities.
"The athlete moved with supernaturally graceful precision."
"The storm surge struck the coast with supernaturally destructive force."
"She seemed to remember the lost key supernaturally well."
Calling something supernaturally powerful suggests that it achieves what ordinary means cannot.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does supernaturally come from?
The adverb is formed from the adjective supernatural, which was developed in the late 16th century from Latin-based elements meaning “above” or “beyond” and “natural.” The same root underlies supernaturalism, referring to belief in supernatural forces, and supernature, meaning a state or realm beyond nature. In English, “supernaturally” came to function as the standard adverbial form of this family.
How supernaturally is actually used
This adverb is often literary or rhetorical. In descriptions of extraordinary ability, it can suggest that the achievement is so impressive that it appears impossible.