CultureSeptember 3, 2026

supernumerary

soo-per-NOO-muh-rer-ee

Definition

In the context of Opus Dei, a lay member who is married or has family obligations and does not live in an Opus Dei center, but who participates in the organization's activities and spiritual life.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'supernumerarius,' meaning 'beyond the stated number,' which originally referred to someone who is an addition to a standard or official group.

In the news

The article identifies Austin Schmitt as an Opus Dei supernumerary to describe his specific level of commitment and role within the Catholic organization.

First-time author Austin Schmitt recognized for a timeless work of art

Read the full article ↗

Arlington Catholic Herald

Related words

durational

Describing a work of art that centers on the passage of time, typically involving an…

Culture

dynamism

The quality of being characterized by vigorous activity, change, energy, or constant…

Culture

inversion

The act or state of being reversed in position, order, or, specifically in the context of…

Culture

juried

Describes an exhibition or competition where the entries are evaluated and selected by a…

Culture

mentalism

A form of stage performance where the performer demonstrates highly developed mental or…

Culture

starfighter

A fictional or real high-performance aircraft designed specifically for space or aerial…

Culture

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.