above

English

/əˈbʌv/, /əˈbʌv/

prep
Definitions
  • Physically over; on top of; worn on top of, said of clothing.
  • In or to a higher place; higher than; on or over the upper surface.
  • Farther north than.
  • Rising; appearing out of reach height-wise.
  • (figuratively) Higher than; superior to in any respect; surpassing; higher in measure, degree, volume, or pitch, etc. than; out of reach; not exposed to; not likely to be affected by; incapable of negative actions or thoughts.
  • Higher in rank, status, or position.
  • In addition to; besides.
  • Surpassing in number or quantity; more than.
  • In preference to.
  • Too proud to stoop to; averse to; disinclined towards;
  • Beyond; on the other side.
  • (theater) Upstage of.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English above inherited from Old English ābufan (above).

Origin

Old English

ābufan

Gloss

above

Concept
Semantic Field

Spatial relations

Ontological Category

Other

Emoji

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms