verb

supersede

soo-per-SEED

Supersede (verb) means to take the place of something older or less effective, so that the earlier version is no longer used or valid. Example: “This policy supersedes all previous guidance issued by the department.”

verb

To take the place of something older or less effective, so that the earlier version is no longer used or valid.

"This policy supersedes all previous guidance issued by the department."

"Streaming has largely superseded the DVD."

To take over a position or role from someone, especially by being appointed in their place.

"She was superseded as head of the department after only a year."

How to Use Supersede

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo replace something old and make it no longer count.

When to use it

Formal; common in legal, administrative and technical writing.

Memory tip

Remember the two s sounds spelled s-s: superSede, the only English verb in -sede.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

supercede (misspelling) supplant precede → succeed →

Common pairings

supersedes all previous has been superseded superseded by superseding legislation

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

This policy _____ all previous guidance issued by the department.

Etymology

From Latin supersedere "to sit above, preside over, refrain from", from super- "above" and sedere "to sit".

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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replace supplant displace succeed override oust

Related Words

win station fail achieve shift replace switch succeed

Rhymes for supersede

cede Dede Fede swede suede Kaede secede recede impede precede concede Ganymede

See all rhymes for supersede →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it supersede or supercede?

Supersede is the correct spelling. "Supercede" is a very common error, produced by analogy with precede, recede and concede — but this word comes from Latin sedere, "to sit", not cedere, "to go", so it takes an s.

What is the difference between supersede and replace?

Replace is neutral: anything can replace anything. Supersede implies that the new thing is later and takes formal precedence, making the old one obsolete or invalid. Documents, laws and technologies are superseded; a broken part is simply replaced.

What is the difference between supersede and supplant?

Supersede suggests orderly succession — the new version officially takes over. Supplant carries a hint of displacement by force or cunning, often against the will of the thing being pushed aside.

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