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.
The film would center on the Dark Knight and his son, Damien Wayne, as Robin, who is quite the firecracker and unaware of his relationship with the superhero. — Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 26 Aug. 2026 In a far milder way, this was also a new act for me, a trainee realizing the limits of medicine like a child learning that her favorite superhero is a fantasy. — Caroline Cherston, STAT, 25 Aug. 2026 For three decades, the cartoon superhero has endeared himself to generations — including Isbel’s son, Lane. — Kansas City Star, 22 Aug. 2026 Sydney Sweeney is turning up the heat with her superhero alter ego. — Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 22 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for superhero

See All Rhymes for superhero

Browse Nearby Words

superhelix
superhero
superheroine
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Superhero.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/superhero. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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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