SUPERIOR

Definitions for the word, superior

(a.) Above the ovary; -- said of parts of the flower which, although normally below the ovary, adhere to it, and so appear to originate from its upper part; also of an ovary when the other floral organs are plainly below it in position, and free from it.

(a.) Belonging to the part of an axillary flower which is toward the main stem; posterior.

(a.) Beyond the power or influence of; too great or firm to be subdued or affected by; -- with to.

(a.) Higher in rank or office; more exalted in dignity; as, a superior officer; a superior degree of nobility.

(a.) Higher or greater in excellence; surpassing others in the greatness, or value of any quality; greater in quality or degree; as, a man of superior merit; or of superior bravery.

(a.) More comprehensive; as a term in classification; as, a genus is superior to a species.

(a.) More elevated in place or position; higher; upper; as, the superior limb of the sun; the superior part of an image.

(a.) Pointing toward the apex of the fruit; ascending; -- said of the radicle.

(n.) One who is above, or surpasses, another in rank, station, office, age, ability, or merit; one who surpasses in what is desirable; as, Addison has no superior as a writer of pure English.

(n.) The head of a monastery, convent, abbey, or the like.