CultureAugust 22, 2026

transcendental

tran-sen-DEN-tuhl

Definition

Rising above or going beyond the ordinary physical limits; often used to describe something that seems to exist in a higher or spiritual realm.

Etymology

Originating from the Latin word 'transcendere,' meaning to climb over or surmount. It entered Middle English via Old French, evolving to describe concepts that extend beyond the bounds of human experience.

In the news

The word is used by the jury to describe the film Everytime as a 'transcendental grief-soaked ghost story,' highlighting how the movie transcends typical storytelling to touch upon profound emotional experiences.

Sandra Wollner’s ‘Everytime’ Wins Best Film in Sarajevo, Ana Urushadze Crowned Best Director

Read the full article ↗

The Hollywood Reporter

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