transcendence
UK: trænˈsɛndəns | US: trænˈsɛndəns
n. the state of excelling or surpassing usual limits; existence beyond the physical or material realm
n. (philosophy/religion) a state of being that transcends ordinary experience or boundaries
transcendence = trans<across> + scend<climb> + ence<noun suffix>
- trans (Latin: "across, beyond")
- scend (from Latin scandere, "to climb")
- ence (noun-forming suffix indicating state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin transcendere ("to climb over, surpass"), combining trans- (beyond) and scandere (to climb). It entered English via Old French transcendre, retaining the core idea of surpassing limits—whether physical, intellectual, or spiritual. The suffix -ence solidifies its abstract noun form, emphasizing the state of transcending.
The monk sought spiritual transcendence through meditation.
Her artistic achievements reached a level of transcendence rarely seen in modern literature.
Quantum physics explores the transcendence of classical physical laws.
The symphony evoked a sense of emotional transcendence in the audience.
Philosophers debate whether transcendence requires abandoning material existence.