transcend

[ tran-send ]

verb (used with object)

1. to rise above or go beyond; overpass; exceed:

   to transcend the limits of thought; kindness transcends courtesy.

2. to outdo or exceed in excellence, elevation, extent, degree, etc.; surpass; excel.

   Synonyms: outstrip

3. Theology. (of the Deity) to be above and independent of (the universe, time, etc.).

verb (used without object)

1. to be transcendent or superior; excel:

   His competitiveness made him want to transcend.

transcend

/ trænˈsɛnd /

verb

1. to go above or beyond (a limit, expectation, etc), as in degree or excellence
2. tr to be superior to
3. philosophy theol (esp of the Deity) to exist beyond (the material world)

Derived Forms

• transˈcendingly, adverb

Other Words From

• tran·scending·ly adverb
• untran·scended adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of transcend¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Latin trānscendere “to surmount,” from trāns- trans- + -scendere (combining form of scandere “to climb”)

Word History and Origins

Origin of transcend¹

C14: from Latin trānscendere to climb over, from trans- + scandere to climb

Example Sentences

Republicans have a rare opportunity to implement policies that are truly compassionate and transcend toxic identity politics.

From The Daily Beast

"As Texans, the bonds we share transcend our differences," Abbott said.

From The Daily Beast

So when they get the technique to transcend, this huge pressure gets released.

From The Daily Beast

The work “symbolizes the human urge to transcend and progress.”

From The Daily Beast

The creative solution is how we actually transform and transcend our limitations.

From The Daily Beast

Is it possible for a human being to transcend so mighty a sacrifice, and all by the power of faith?

From Project Gutenberg

Nor did this, if once the premises were granted, appear to transcend the real powers of mankind.

From Project Gutenberg

The more serious any interpretation is, the more necessary is it that manifestation transcend representation.

From Project Gutenberg

Conditions must transcend both motions and attitudes, and attitudes must always predominate over motions.

From Project Gutenberg

To palliate on such grounds is to believe in the irresponsibility of motives, which should transcend times and occasions.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• eclipse
• outstrip
• overstep
• transform