Definition

In a way that is beyond what is natural or normal; unusually or extraordinarily.

Example

The child seemed to understand the complex concepts preternaturally well for her age.

Conversation

Did you see that magician last night?

Yeah, he was preternaturally good at his tricks!

I know, right? It felt like he could read our minds.

Exactly! It was like watching something from another world.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Preternaturally → It is formed from "praeter-" (meaning beyond or outside) and "naturalis" (meaning natural). The word describes something that exists beyond the natural order or is extraordinary.

Memory Tip

Think of something that exists 'beyond' ('praeter-') what is 'natural' ('naturalis') — that's why preternaturally refers to something extraordinary.

Visually Confused Words