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verb

transcend

tran-SEHND

Transcend (verb) means to go beyond the usual limits of something. Example: “Great art can transcend language barriers.”

verb
1
To go beyond the usual limits of something.
"Great art can transcend language barriers."
"Her kindness seemed to transcend the pettiness around her."

How to use transcend

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo rise above or go past normal boundaries.

Common pairings
transcend boundaries transcend differences transcend the ordinary

Word forms

transcended past tense, transcends singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Great art can _____ language barriers.

Etymology

From Old French "transcender," from Latin "transcendere" — "to climb over or surpass," from "trans-" ("across") plus "scandere" ("to climb").

Origin: Latin

Antonyms

fall short of stop short

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “transcend” mean?

The word “transcend” means to go beyond the usual limits of something. In plain terms, to rise above or go past normal boundaries.

How do you pronounce “transcend”?

“Transcend” is pronounced tran-SEHND (/tɹæn(t)ˈsɛnd/ in IPA).

How do you use “transcend” in a sentence?

Here is “transcend” used in a sentence: “Great art can transcend language barriers.”

What is another word for “transcend”?

Words with a similar meaning to “transcend” include overgo, surpass, dwarf, eclipse, excel and forpass.

What is the opposite of “transcend”?

The opposite of “transcend” — its antonyms — are fall short of and stop short.

What part of speech is “transcend”?

“Transcend” is a verb.

Where does the word “transcend” come from?

The word “transcend” comes from Latin. From Old French "transcender," from Latin "transcendere" — "to climb over or surpass," from "trans-" ("across") plus "scandere" ("to climb").

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial