superstes
[sʊˈpɛr.stɛs]feminine, masculine
The Latin word for survivor is superstes.
Meaning: one who survives (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from super, meaning above or over, combined with a participle suffix. It literally means one who remains above or over a situation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form superstes can function as a singular noun for both masculine and feminine subjects, and it is also the plural form for both masculine and feminine nouns.
Did you know?
- While superstes refers to the person, the verb superstō can also describe a building or a monument that remains standing after others have crumbled.
- The root of superstes shares a common ancestor with the English word 'super', but in Latin it specifically implies a physical or temporal standing over others who have fallen.
- The verb superstō is often used in Latin poetry to create a poignant contrast between the 'standing' survivor and the 'fallen' dead.
Examples in context
- Post terremotum, multi homines emergunt superstites.After the earthquake, many people emerge as survivors.
- Superstes est fortis.The survivor is brave.
- Ego superstes sum.I am a survivor.
- Superstes mulier est.The survivor is a woman.
Example conversation
Two people are discussing a recent natural disaster.
- JuliaEsne tu superstes, Quinte?Are you a survivor, Quintus?
- QuintusIta, sum superstes.Yes, I am a survivor.
- JuliaSuperstes laetus esse debes.You should be a happy survivor.
- QuintusGratias tibi ago, Iulia.Thank you, Julia.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “survivor” translations and entries superstes, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
