superb

[soo-purb, suh-]

adjective

1. admirably fine or excellent; extremely good.

   a superb performance.

2. sumptuous; rich; grand.

   superb jewels.

   Synonyms: elegant

3. of a proudly imposing appearance or kind; majestic.

   superb mountain vistas.

superb

/ sjʊ-, sʊˈpɜːb /

adjective

1. surpassingly good; excellent

   a superb actor

2. majestic or imposing

   a superb mansion

3. magnificently rich; luxurious

   the jubilee was celebrated with a superb banquet

Other Word Forms

• superbly adverb
• superbness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of superb¹

First recorded in 1540–50; from Latin superbus “proud, superior, excellent,” equivalent to super- super- + -bus adjectival suffix (akin to be )

Word History and Origins

Origin of superb¹

C16: from Old French superbe, from Latin superbus distinguished, from super above

Synonym Study

See magnificent.

Example Sentences

That versatility makes her an ideal bench option, a superb stand-in wherever needed in the backline.

From BBC

That combination of hard-running forward and quicksilver backs, connecting with superb handling skills, was in evidence again and again.

From BBC

The first half of the film doesn’t deviate from the formula — it’s a little dull — but the second half is a superb right hook.

From Los Angeles Times

One such moment was during the second half when she made a superb tackle on Wallaroos' wing Maya Stewart, despite being isolated out wide and up against a player with greater pace.

From BBC

Even so, the cast’s superb performances easily overcome those flaws to produce a story that’s more emotionally resonant and fulfilling.

From Salon

Related Words

• admirable 
• best 
• breathtaking 
• elegant 
• exquisite 
• fine 
• glorious 
• gorgeous 
• great 
• magnificent 
• marvelous 
• outstanding 
• solid 
• splendid 
• stunning 
• sublime 
• superior 
• superlative