superintend

verb

su·​per·​in·​tend ˌsü-p(ə-)rin-ˈtend How to pronounce superintend (audio)
ˌsü-pərn-
superintended; superintending; superintends

transitive verb

: to have or exercise the charge and oversight of : direct

Examples of superintend in a Sentence

superintends the construction of all scenery at the summer theater homeschooling parents who superintend their children's education
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
State law and the City Charter bestow upon the governor the power and duty to superintend the mayor. Christian Browne, New York Daily News, 23 Feb. 2025 Those of us who watched Yellowstone to the last already know the fate of the ranch and the family who superintended it. Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 23 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin superintendere, from Latin super- + intendere to stretch out, direct — more at intend

First Known Use

1564, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of superintend was in 1564

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Superintend.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/superintend. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

superintend

verb
su·​per·​in·​tend ˌsü-p(ə-)rin-ˈtend How to pronounce superintend (audio)
ˌsü-pərn-
: to be in charge of : direct

More from Merriam-Webster on superintend

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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