What does supertitle mean?
A supertitle is an additional title or descriptive line placed with the main title of a work. Its best-known use is in television, where it may identify an episode as a special, describe the kind of story being presented, or provide other context that the episode title alone does not supply. The term can also refer to secondary wording accompanying the title of a book or other publication. A supertitle is not necessarily part of the formal title, and it is often longer and more explanatory than a simple subtitle. In older British television, supertitles were especially prominent, sometimes remaining on screen while the programme began. Today the term remains understandable in media and publishing contexts, although strapline or subtitle may be preferred in some situations.
An additional title or descriptive line accompanying the principal title of a work, especially a television episode or programme.
"The episode's supertitle described it as a Christmas special."
Chiefly editorial and broadcasting terminology; also used in publishing.
To give a work or episode an additional title or descriptive line.
"The broadcaster supertitled the programme with a line announcing its return to a former setting."
Used chiefly in media and publishing contexts.
The standard plural when referring to multiple additional titles or descriptive lines.
"The series used different supertitles for each of its episodes."
That extra line beside an episode title, announcing “a special” or describing the story, was once commonly called a supertitle.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does supertitle come from?
Supertitle is a modern English compound formed from the prefix super-, meaning beyond or additional to, and title. Title ultimately comes through French from the Latin titulus, a word for an inscription, label, or heading. The compound developed in editorial and publishing usage before becoming particularly associated with descriptive lines accompanying British television episode titles.
Related word forms
How supertitle is actually used
The term is chiefly associated with broadcasting and publishing. It is more specific than a general subtitle and is often used for a descriptive line accompanying a television episode's title.
Easily confused with supertitle
A supertitle is an additional line accompanying the main title, while a subtitle is the secondary title of the work itself.