surpassing

[ser-pas-ing, -pah-sing]

adjective

1. of a large amount or high degree; exceeding, excelling, or extraordinary.

   structures of surpassing magnificence.

adverb

1. in a surpassing manner; extraordinarily.

surpassing

/ sɜːˈpɑːsɪŋ /

adjective

1. exceptional; extraordinary

adverb

1. obsolete,  (intensifier)

   surpassing fair

Other Word Forms

• surpassingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of surpassing¹

First recorded in 1570–80; surpass + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Last week, Amnesty International and the Norway-based group Iran Human Rights said they had documented the executions of 1,000 people in Iran since January - already surpassing last year's reported total of 975.

From BBC

The region was once considered the world's most dangerous area for maritime piracy, surpassing the waters off Somalia.

From BBC

This represented two firsts: Liverpool passing the £300m landmark and surpassing Manchester United in this aspect for the first time.

From BBC

BYD has grown to become the world's largest EV maker, surpassing Tesla in annual revenue in 2024, thanks to the wide appeal of its hybrid vehicles in China, Asia and European markets.

From BBC

This was necessary because “nuclear weapons represent such a surpassing evil that they can be justified only by an equally evil adversary.”

From Salon

Related Words

• catchy 
• decisive 
• enduring 
• eventful 
• extraordinary 
• famous 
• great 
• historic 
• important 
• impressive 
• indelible 
• interesting 
• meaningful 
• momentous 
• monumental 
• notable 
• remarkable 
• terrific 
• unforgettable