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preter-human

preter-human

9.9
A being that has abilities beyond those of people
  • adjective
  • /ˈprɛtər ˈhjuːmən/
  • Literature
translation icon : preterhumano
  • The preter-human entity seemed to possess abilities beyond our understanding.

Examples

  • Their technology was so advanced, it appeared almost preter-human to early observers.

  • The novel describes preter-human entities influencing the course of history.

  • Some philosophers have speculated about the existence of preter-human intelligence in the universe.

  • Many myths describe preter-human beings that shaped the world.

  • Some philosophers have speculated about the existence of preter-human intelligence that exceeds our current understanding.

  • In ancient texts, there are descriptions of preter-human beings with powers that surpass human capabilities.

  • The scientists believe that the advanced technology they discovered might be of preter-human origin.

Synonyms

posthuman
vspreter-human
  • Formal
1 9.8

Relating to a future state where technology gives people new and greater abilities

is broader, meaning existence beyond human nature regardless of origin
suprahuman
vspreter-human
9.9

Having power or ability beyond what a normal person can do

is about surpassing present humanity without implying divine status

How Superhuman

posthuman
  • Formal
1 9.8
transhuman
  • Specialized
1 9.2
preter-human
  • Literature
9.9
superhuman
43 6.0
exceptional
129 4.1
human
1.0

Surface Forms

preter-human positive

Morphology

preter-human = human (semi-transparent) = preter + human

The prefix 'preter-' suggests 'beyond' or 'more than', but the specific meaning of surpassing human capabilities is not immediately obvious.

Etymology

Preter-human comes from the Latin part preter-, meaning 'beyond' or 'past', and human, meaning 'human'. A helpful way to remember it is to imagine a being 'beyond human' in power or nature, so preter-human describes something that goes beyond ordinary humanity.