superstructure

[ soo-per-struhk-cher ]

noun

1. the part of a building or construction entirely above its foundation or basement.
2. any structure built on something else.
3. the overlying framework or features of an organization, institution, or system, built or superimposed on a more fundamental base.
4. Nautical. any construction built above the main deck of a vessel as an upward continuation of the sides. Compare deckhouse.
5. the part of a bridge that rests on the piers and abutments.
6. anything based on or rising from some foundation or basis:

   a complex ideological superstructure based on two hypotheses.

superstructure

/ ˈsuːpəˌstrʌktʃə /

noun

1. the part of a building above its foundation
2. any structure or concept erected on something else
3. nautical any structure above the main deck of a ship with sides flush with the sides of the hull
4. the part of a bridge supported by the piers and abutments
5. (in Marxist theory) an edifice of interdependent agencies of the state, including legal and political institutions and ideologies, each possessing some autonomy but remaining products of the dominant mode of economic production

Derived Forms

• ˈsuperˌstructural, adjective

Other Words From

• super·structur·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of superstructure¹

First recorded in 1635–45; super- + structure

Example Sentences

“His eye contact is limited but thorough. He is sizing me up. He looks like a wolf about to rip my throat out before turning away, offering me my first glimpse at the superstructure — his hairstyle — buttressed atop his head with what must be gallons of Aqua Net.”

From Salon

Sonar scans indicate the vehicles that fell into the water are encased in a "superstructure" of concrete and other debris, say state police.

From BBC

Butler said they believe the vehicles with the other victims are “encased in the superstructure and concrete that we tragically saw come down.”

From Los Angeles Times

They are now using sonar scans and believe that vehicles that may contain other bodies are "encased in superstructure and concrete" that came down from the bridge, an official said.

From BBC

“Based on sonar scans, we firmly believe that the vehicles are encased in the superstructure and concrete that we tragically saw come down,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• architecture
• construction
• home
• house
• hut