English vocabulary · C1
Supersede
/ˌsuːpərˈsiːd/ · v.
Supersede means to take the place of something older when a newer choice is used. The old one loses its role and becomes less useful.
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Example sentences
- Phones superseded paper maps.
- This rule supersedes the old one.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- super — above (from Latin)
- sede — sit (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- REPLACE — use another instead (Put Another In Its Place)
- DISPLACE — force out of place (Move From A Position)
- SUCCEED — follow in a role (Come Next In Order)
Words with the same root
sede — sit
- reside — live in a place
- preside — lead a meeting
- sedentary — sitting much
Lesson notes
Supersede means to take the place of something older when a newer choice is used. The old one loses its role and becomes less useful.
Related: replace, displace, succeed. Use Supersede when a new choice wins.
Phones superseded paper maps. This rule supersedes the old one.
From Latin. Super- means above. Sede- means sit. New sits above old; that is to supersede.