How Do You Spell PRETERNATURAL?

Pronunciation: [pɹɪtənˈat͡ʃəɹə͡l] (IPA)

Preternatural is a difficult word to spell, with its silent "e" and unusual vowel combination. It is pronounced /priːtəˈnætʃərəl/ and means beyond what is natural or normal. The first syllable is stressed and contains the diphthong "ee." The second syllable contains a schwa sound followed by a t, an "a" vowel sound, and a "sh" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound followed by "rəl." Despite its tricky spelling, preternatural is a fascinating word that conveys a sense of the supernatural or otherworldly.

Meaning and Definition
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PRETERNATURAL Meaning and Definition

  1. Preternatural is an adjective that refers to something that is beyond what is considered natural or ordinary, often suggesting something supernatural or inexplicable. It describes qualities, phenomena, or abilities that lie outside the scope of the natural order.

    The term preternatural combines the Latin roots "praeter" meaning "beyond" or "past," and "natura" meaning "nature." When used to describe a person, it implies exceptional qualities or abilities that surpass what is normally expected.

    In a broader sense, preternatural can apply to events or occurrences that are outside the realm of common experience or scientific explanation. It is often associated with the eerie, unexplainable, or otherworldly. Examples include psychic phenomena, apparitions, or strange coincidences that defy rational explanation.

    Preternatural can also describe heightened or extraordinary capabilities, skills, or perceptions. For instance, it might refer to a person's intuition that seems to surpass normal sensory perception or a remarkable talent that surpasses what is considered ordinary.

    Overall, preternatural is an adjective that conveys a sense of that which surpasses the natural boundaries or abilities of ordinary existence, suggesting something uncanny, extraordinary, or inexplicable.

  2. Contrary to nature or the usual course of things; extra ordinary.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PRETERNATURAL

Etymology of PRETERNATURAL

The word "preternatural" originated from the Latin term "praeternaturalis", which can be broken down into two components: "praeter", meaning "beyond" or "besides", and "naturalis", meaning "natural". The prefix "praeter-" implies something that goes beyond or exceeds the normal or natural state, and when combined with "naturalis", it forms the term "preternaturalis", which means "beyond or outside of the natural order". Over time, "praeternaturalis" evolved into "preternatural" in Late Middle English, retaining the essence of its Latin root.

Similar spelling words for PRETERNATURAL

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