Transcendental

/ˌtrænsenˈdɛntəl/ adjective

Definition

Going beyond ordinary limits or experience; existing beyond the physical world; or in philosophy, relating to knowledge that comes from intuition rather than experience.

Etymology

From Latin 'transcendentalis,' derived from 'transcendere' (to cross over or surpass). Used by philosophers like Kant and Emerson to describe knowledge beyond sensory experience.

Kelly Says

Emerson and Thoreau were transcendentalists who believed nature and intuition showed deeper truth than books—Walden Pond was Thoreau's experiment in transcendental living, living simply in nature to find meaning!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.