superhero

noun

su·​per·​he·​ro ˈsü-pər-ˌhir-(ˌ)ō How to pronounce superhero (audio)
-ˌhē-(ˌ)rō
plural superheroes
: a fictional hero having extraordinary or superhuman powers
also : an exceptionally skillful or successful person compare superheroine, supervillain

Examples of superhero in a Sentence

The people who do this dangerous work are real-life superheroes who deserve our gratitude.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Royals players in supporting roles Some superheroes thrive in key roles. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 24 Apr. 2025 Reynolds, 48, briefly discussed his foray into making a superhero movie based on the DC Comics character of the same name during his appearance at the TIME 100 Summit in New York City on Wednesday, April 23. Tommy McArdle, People.com, 24 Apr. 2025 Ryan Reynolds reflected on his experience playing superheroes and spoke about his business ventures at the 2025 Time 100 Summit on Wednesday. Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 23 Apr. 2025 Children meet superheroes and villains, engage with games and movies, and are greeted by staff in costume. Chris Gallagher, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for superhero

Word History

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of superhero was in 1899

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Superhero.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/superhero. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

superhero

noun
su·​per·​he·​ro
ˈsü-per-ˌhē-rō,
-ˌhi(ə)r-ō
: a fictional hero having extraordinary or superhuman powers
also : a very successful person
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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